Angel's Blogging Haven

Redirect to new blog

2010-10-05T01:11:00.000-07:00

Please click here to access my new blog for all the recent updates

Please kindly update bookmark to include this new blog;
Christy's Life Journal

http://christylifejournal.blogspot.com/

Consolidating my blogs - please update your bookmarks

2010-09-22T22:15:00.001-07:00

"You have too many blogs, I have lost track!"
This is the comment that I have been getting from everyone and anyone I know.

I often laughed and chuckled as it was just typical of me; being the indecisive and also with my multiple interests and constant need for multitasking, I ended up creating blogs for almost everything and anything I wanted to write about.

This blog, Angelstar Blog Haven marks the start of my blogging journey, and was what inspired me to write in the first place.
It was the ONLY blog back then, where I wrote about everything in this single blog.
It remains my main domain to this day, and I am still really proud of her.

The blog then slowly expanded to a new food blog, which I created to capture all my eating adventures; me being that picky person who is very particular with what she eats.
It's really not a great thing to show off; being someone who is so selective when there are so many out there living in starvation.
I will try to change my habits, it will take time, I have my allergies and dislikes. I am still human, after all.

The food blog began my expedition of capturing interesting food, which I eat or don't eat, and all those banquets and gatherings with family and friends, and no meal is left out of my camera's radar, and no one will touch the food served on the table before I take a snapshot.
Ahhhh, the power of my food blog on my close and loved ones =)
yumyumbites.blogspot.com aka Food Diary of a Pickyeater remains one of everyone's favorite blog to check out what I have been feeding myself.

Feeling rather personal, I have also gone into creating a little diary for myself, the name of the blog stemming from this special and unique acronym my darling created for me when we first met and how he would always tease me with it before we embarked on our magical and lovely journey.
That was the birth of my DPCS Princess Diary blog.

I loved travel, and it did not take me long to realize that I would want to capture all my travel tales into a blog; somewhat like a scrapbook or something like that and therefore, I created a few travel blogs before finally settling on Christy's Traveblogue

The list of blogs further expanded; and I launched into a rather crazy mode by creating blogs for my movie/tv reviews (Movie Bugz)
I had a loud voice and opinion on feminism; and therefore, I started my Voices of Eve

The list goes on, and I even have a blog dedicated to my favorite books; reviewing all the books I have read and want to read.
Thus the birth of From Angelstar's Shelves

Another interesting blog of mine is the Starry Starry Night which carries all the tales, myths, superstitions which I enjoyed sharing from my ancestors and elders; or from books I have read or even hearsay!
This may sound like a spooky blog but it was actually a very educational and most satisfying blog I have, giving me a whole new perspective of all the unexplainable things happening around us.

I have another blog on my strong opinions and beliefs; My Thoughts and My Words
and my last and most recent girly blog.

Anyway, all the blogs above have come to a certain maturity and timeline and recently, in my sane frame of mind, I will be consolidating most of my blogs and streamlining them to a few blogs only which you can start to bookmark to check on the specific stuffs:

(Comprehensive and consolidated list for easy access, I promise)

1. NEW MAIN Portal; Christy's Life Journal (replacing Angelstar Blog Haven, DPCS Princess Diary, My Thoughts and Words)

2. My Food Diary

3. My Travel Blog

4. My Movie Blog

5. All things supernatural and mythical; Starry Starry Night

The above 5 are the main blogs to bookmark in your browser from now on; as I will be spending time on them.
You can access most of the other blogs from the main portal, but these will be the five main blogs from now on =)

Stay tune for more updates.....

Reflections...

2010-09-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

My mind have been filled with thoughts recently; and I see flashbacks of my life and also my views of my upcoming future.
It was a crazy journey, with flashes of the happy and sad memories all running side by side like it was on a roll of film slowly exposing itself.

I smiled, laughed, cried and even pondered at some of these memories and asked myself question after question, whether it was all just so surreal.
I find myself looking at my own life which was like a huge atlas spread out before me, with marks all around and the gray areas left unexplored, and I felt overwhelmed at how things have affected me in every little way.

Surrounded by all the memories and my own life, I looked at in comparison to the big wide world out there and a sudden realization dawned upon me, I was such a small person living in a big big world out there and what I had journeyed so far, sadly seemed insignificant compared to the big globe out there.

I felt so tiny in comparison to the huge world and the things that I could do, or reach out to and I felt ashamed at the same time that I had simply not done enough to contribute to the world out there.

I am just but one person, it's true, but one hand which reached out is more than millions of hands which shrank back and I feel that I could have done something.

Perhaps it is maturity, or the recent events and happenings around the world which triggered my awakening, but I believe it was meant to be.

It was a calling from God, it was something that I should have done long ago, and I am sorting all this through, and I do want to make a change.
I want to be someone who is not just part of the audience, but to be someone who makes things happen.

I want to be there to help to make the world a better place to live in, and it does start from me.

I have been blessed with the fortune of having a good life, surrounded by loving parents and family and friends, who provided for me and made sure that I was not short of love and attention during my childhood.
Perhaps it was this that made me content with my life, and probably the reason why I take things for granted sometimes.

I whine for little things that don't go my way, or when I don't have the best of the situation.
Little did I know that I was just being silly, and spoilt amidst all the other unfortunate things in the world.

I am thankful for being one of the lucky ones, thanks to the Lord Almighty, and I am grateful for HIS ways in me.

I am thankful for the times HE reminded me of how lucky I was, and for constantly waking me up to the harsh realities of life.

It may be a long journey I know, and I am ready for it, because I realized how much I have to do.

I am thankful that I am aware of the world around me and how I could be a part of it, to make it a better place to live in....

It is this journey called LIFE....

BACK!~

2010-09-19T02:23:00.000-07:00

I am BACK, and it's Sunday again....loads of updates and photos and I am updating my blogs in the meantime.

It's been a great and refreshing break, although I had some unpleasant allergies but that dispersed soon enough.

I am glad to be back too.....can't wait to work on ALL my blogs...stay tune and hope everyone had a great holiday too =D

Vacation mood and annual leave

2010-09-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

I am finally on annual leave today; and I am looking forward to my short little vacation soon!

I will be away for a week from blogging (I'll try to blog whenever/wherever possible! ;)

Till then, wishing all of you (if you are Muslim) a blessed and joyful Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration and to all, Happy Malaysia Day =)

It's Happy HOLIDAYS to me!~

It's Fall here and Spring there

2010-09-06T01:37:00.000-07:00

I remembered I used to mention that we do have four seasons here as well; although we have this tropical summer season all year long.
(Actually that seemed like all year long summer since the sun is always there)

Anyway, recently as we are entering into the second half of the year, it has been raining cats and dogs and the winds are just so strong and breezy, sending chills everywhere.
It is the fall season, it is getting cold; with the winds and the clouds.

When the final quarter (year end) arrives, it will be all rain and dark skies again, hence ladies and gentlemen, that's our winter season.

I am starting to feel really cold these days, it makes me feel that I wanna don a trench coat with booties, ooooh, and not forgetting a woollen hat!

It is also interesting that how in certain places we have cold weather, or about to enter the cold weather in others, they have gotten rid of the cold and are entering the beautiful colors of spring.

Isn't the world a beautiful place, and all praises go to the Lord Almighty who Created all this =)

Counting Books

2010-09-06T01:13:00.000-07:00

What do you do when you can't sleep?
Usually people tell us to count sheep, drink milk, or meditate before going to sleep to make it easier.

Vigorous exercise is also recommended, and watching tv or reading before you go to sleep is definitely discouraged.

I tried counting sheep, and no, it didn't work.

So, recently, I did something subconsciously when I was having trouble sleeping.

I started counting books, seriously, I have no idea where did that came from or how it started and what was I doing.

I think it was probably due to the number of books that I really wanted to read or get, and maybe I felt I haven't been reading enough when there are so many books in the world! LOL!

I don't know, but I kind of started counting books, I don't know what books or how did I start it.

Did that work?
I don't really think so either, but it was slightly better than counting sheep...

Crazy huh?
That's what deprivation of sleep/insomnia does to you....

Counting books, indeed...

HOLIDAY Season~

2010-09-06T01:03:00.001-07:00

It's the holiday season again, and what more to prove it than the rowdy and hyperventilating kids appearing on every corner of the street!

The joyous festive season of Aidilfitri is here; in fact, at the end of this week.
School going children are already on their break, and us, poor working people, we are waiting for the day we get the replacement for our public holidays! =)

Everyone in my office is already going on top of their minds on how they don't feel like working anymore and how everyone is just so pumped for the holiday season.

Isn't it just lovely when the holiday season is here?

Even I am in the holiday mood now....more than anyone would have thought ;)

I am singing Boney M's Holi-holi-DAY now ~ *SMILES*

Meet me...

2010-09-03T00:30:00.001-07:00

This would pretty much be me, after days of not being able to sleep at night and waking up constantly

I think I pretty much resemble this near-extinct species known for their signature black rings around their eyes.

*SHIVERS*

I need my sleep; it's really exhausting, not to mention frustrating not being able to sleep or get a restful sleep at night!
The neighbors' dogs were culprits too, they barked throughout the night...waking me up

Any tips to help me sleep better at night?
(Forget about warm milk, or not reading/watching tv in bed...been there done that)

HOT and COLD on the journey back...

2010-09-02T01:16:00.000-07:00

It is really funny how the weather changes from one to another during my journey back from KL.

It was incredibly hot; the sun was seriously doing some taxing duties by scorching the rays on earth that particular day

Then suddenly, we were greeted with this

Pouring cats and dogs all over the road and heavy raindrops pattering against our dashboard

Funny, I usually love the rain, but on certain conditions, and traveling/driving is definitely not one of them!

The rain lasted as fast as it came because we stepped back into sunny sunny sunshine again...

Now, how can anyone doubt the effects of global warming anymore or the wonders of God?

My lovely weekend~

2010-09-02T00:10:00.000-07:00

I had a great weekend back at home; a holiday weekend which I almost missed.
Yeah, how ironic, I kinda forgot about this holiday (smiles sheepishly)

I mean, how could anyone miss out a potentially long and continuous weekend like this one; starting from the Nuzul Al Quran state holiday on Friday (applicable for only a few states) and Independence Day on Tuesday, which means I only need to take a day off on Monday to make it all a long five-day break and I missed that!

I don't know how, don't ask me and if you are going to label me un-patriotic, then maybe yeah.

Thankfully I was knocked with some sense and I made it my holiday home; to visit my family and my mum who was not feeling so well.

I ended up spending quality time with loved ones and close friends which meant a lot to me and certainly cheered me up and lifted all my thoughts off my mind.

A quick recap of my long weekend; which started on Friday but I stayed back and only travelled on Saturday morning.

1. Met up with my guy best friend in 1U at Paddington and managed to capture the Hari Raya props 1U has set up in conjunction with the festive season

I love how they have created this whole traditional rumah kampung with paddy fields and the conservative (but realistic) atmosphere of the unity of the folks in the village.

It definitely did take a lot of effort to set this up, and it was a depiction of our Malaysian outskirts which is the pride of our nation.

2. Went for a short walk with Mum and Dad to the nearby Pasar Ramadhan (to post in my food blog shortly =)

3. Met up with my bestie and her boyfriend on our very first Double Date!!
We had totally no idea what to do so we just ate at Paddington's (again), this time at the Curve and chatted =P

4. Went for my dental check-up, not exactly a very pleasant one either =(

5. Unpacked and organized my room and all my clothes, bags and books

6. Watched the Merdeka day celebration on TV

(Yeah, I captured this directly from the TV, it's fun!)

7. Finished reading my current novel

8. Visited my uncle and aunt and had a lovely afternoon chatting with them, while enjoying Aunt's homemade Konnyaku jelly (which I totally forgot to take photos of!)
I LOVE Konnyaku jelly, they are just so cool and refreshing on a hot and sunny day.
Oh, and I met the latest family member, a cute little puppy named Max which I also forgot to take photo of! He was just so adorable =)
I enjoyed the quality chatting session; we talked about so many things and I really had fun!
Thanks Aunt for the lovely jelly, I missed them already!

That was pretty much the summary of what I did and enjoyed during this short break; slightly longer than the usual 3-day long weekend at least and then, it's back to work and reality!

Where is this leading to?

2010-09-01T01:12:00.000-07:00

Do you go straight down to the ground with this signboard?
LOL! =D

It's back to work again....

2010-09-01T00:56:00.000-07:00

After a nice and long break in conjunction with Nuzul Al Quran (sorry for those who don't get to enjoy this holiday) and Independence Day, it's time to be back to work again.

Should I say Yeay?

I doubt any of us would say Yeay to the return of the mundane lifestyle we had; waking up (or not being able to wake up and dragging one's feet out of bed), driving to work, checking and replying emails/emptying inboxes of emails which never stop arriving, and then driving home and dinner and going to bed (or some may have more work to do), and sleep for a few hours and having a hard time waking up all over in the morning.

Is that anything to Yeay about?
Not unless you truly love what you are doing; which is basically damaging our own health.

Sometimes, we wonder, what we are doing, or is what we are doing worth everything we have

Think about it, while we beat the off cycle Wednesday blues....back to work!

Bravo to another driver

2010-08-27T05:43:00.001-07:00

Oh ya, on the topic of interesting drivers, I noticed some interesting driving behaviors on the road when I was stuck in the horrendous 3-hours traffic jam yesterday.

There was only one lane on the road and somehow some ingenious drivers managed to create an extra lane on the left, for whatever reason which we are all aware of (to jump queue!)

Anyway, in front of us was this Honda Civic; and the rude intruder on his left was a Toyota Altis which was rather persistent in and dangerously trying to work his way in.
On our side was a White Myvi which was attached to a driving school.

We enjoyed the little drama in front as the Honda Civic was rather defiant as well and refused to give way to the Altis which was seriously annoying and constantly try to ram his way in!

As we approached a narrower section (after slowly inching for what seemed like hours), I noticed the Honda's driver rolling down his passenger seat's window (which was next to the Altis driver's side.

What happened next caught me by surprise (it may not be surprising to some of you, I know, I am a little doe).
The Honda driver HONKED at the Altis driver and I think he showed some kind of bad sign or something and guess what, the Altis stayed by the side and allowed the Honda to move forward first.

WOWWWWWW, I mean, like really really WOW!
That was an amazing thing, and I have to say, this is one brave action I applaud!
It may be a little rude, but I didn't think the Altis had a lot of manners either if they do things like jumping queue!

I'd say, BRAVO to the Honda driver and to the Altis, it really a lesson to be learnt not to cut into the queue the next time there is a traffic jam.
It really doesn't make you a hero!

And the Myvi next to us, who badly wanted to shine as a hero, didn't get his way with us either as we didn't give way to him as well.
I just think that it's obnoxious and absolutely unacceptable that a driving institution sets horrid examples like these.

What is going to happen to our roads in the future? I dare not see...

It is NOT His fault....

2010-08-27T05:36:00.001-07:00

Today I was driving back from town in the afternoon, heading home and I stopped at this traffic light at the main junction of Sg Dua (where N Park/Sunnyville is on your left and USM is on your right?)

The lights soon turned green for our lane and I was surprised to see that I am not able to move yet (the car in front did not move)
There was a honk and I noticed that the two cars in front of me; a Citra and a CRV moving out towards the right.
I followed pursuit and I noticed the main reason we are held back, a car put on the hazard lights and just stopped there.
I think it broke down or something.

Now, the astonishing part was this; this Citra honked at the car, and that's not enough. The driver rolled down his window and just rudely waved his arm at the broke down car, like the sign language of saying "What the hell"

I think otherwise, "What the h*** is wrong with this Citra driver?"

I mean, who asked to break down in the middle of the road?
Do you seriously think that the driver really enjoyed not being able to drive off when the light turned green?
It is enough that he had to endure and to figure out how to get his car out of there and fixed.

It is really NOT his fault!

Sometimes some people can just be so inconsiderate and insensitive....

Washing machines - friendly...or NOT?

2010-08-27T04:20:00.000-07:00

Don't get me wrong, I love anything that is associated in technology.
Hey, I studied something related to technology and I grew up in a technological era anyway.
I do adore technology and I worship technology (okay, not in the Godly kind of way because I still believe in GOD Himself)

I am thrilled to have stuffs like washing machine and fridge, and I would even want to get a robotic sweeper/vacuum cleaner if I can.
I missed the washing machine so much, and I was so happy to finally have aid in washing clothes (now I sound like such a lazy housekeeper)

However, I've learnt that you do not simply throw stuffs into the washing machine OR to make sure that you're sober before you throw anything into the machine.
I absent-mindedly and absurdly threw my favorite pair of bedroom slippers into it and look at what it has done to them...

Poor Pooh, that must have hurt a lot....

And this is the culprit, HE did it! Convicted....

Past beautiful sunrise and into noon....

2010-08-27T04:13:00.000-07:00

Sweep past the sunrise which is although breathtakingly beautiful, but it also made way for super duper thick blankets of haze across the skies.

I do not know whether this is haze or also the massive heat emitted from the grounds/skies. (if that's even scientifically possible, actually, it is:)

I do not like the haze; it gives me headaches and running noses....

In the morning...

2010-08-26T19:10:00.000-07:00

I love to wake up early in the morning and get the first glimpse of sunrise, but of course, I would need to be in a perfectly strategic location to be able to have that view, don't I?

Well, fortunately, I do.....and I was so happyyyy that I managed to capture this beautiful shot as the skies slowly brightened and made way for the SUN!

Wow, beautiful and breath-taking!
Praise the Lord for his amazing creation =D

It is a brand NEW DAY today!!~ =)

THE Traffic Jam last night....

2010-08-26T18:24:00.000-07:00

Here, I finally got these photos out from my phone....if you didn't believe me, look at the photos of the massive traffic jam on Penang island last night.

The traffic jam which landed me 3 hours on the road, inching from one tiny weeny point to another and not close enough to hit the bumper of another car (thankfully)
I had a skilled driver next to me anyway ;)

The traffic jam which resulted in me having dinner at almost 9pm, and having to go to sleep later than usual because I had to digest the food!

This reminded me of the same traffic jam I got caught in at the Penang Bridge 4 years ago when there was this overturned truck/oil tanker on the bridge and I was stuck there for 4 hours!

Look at this, I am not on a new road; still the same old road, just that the car in front of me is not the one from the first picture because the poor frustrated driver made a quick U-turn to get out of this horrendous traffic predicament!

I seriously thought I was going to be stuck there like, forever (a bit exaggerated), but it really felt like that!

*Shudders at the thoughts of the traffic jam last night*

Thank God I got home before morning, right?

Stuck for 3 hours!

2010-08-26T05:59:00.000-07:00

Can you believe what just happened?

I was stuck in a crazy traffic jam which lasted for almost 3 hours!
The cars are not moving; I am not even in a bumper-to-bumper kind of crawl....it was a stationary; as if time has stopped and all the cars just stopped moving!!!

Wow, I doubt even one with most patience can bear to watch how one's car move an inch in every 10 minutes!

I am glad I finally got home, I thought I'd never make it....it seemed so far away....
Thank God for finally reaching home.

I still don't understand what caused the jam; but I am attributing it to the fact that tomorrow is a public holiday, and I heard that those states observing this holiday tomorrow are facing the same predicament in the traffic condition.

So, sometimes holidays are great and cool, but not the days before the holiday huh?

The income tax rebate but Wrong name

2010-08-26T01:41:00.000-07:00

I have received a letter from LHDN (for those who are not familiar with Malaysia's abbreviations, that is short for Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negara; which simply means the Internal Revenue Board - your one stop for Income Tax)
Yes, these are the blood suckers who pinch percentages of your hard-earned salary against your will (using the law) and use it goodness knows where.

It was a delight to hear that I am getting a refund from the income tax I've paid for the past year. (again, not really a delight as this simply means that I have been over-taxed!! No wonder I was a few dollars short each month, LOL!)

Anyway, I was happy to find the cheque although I frowned at the order of my name on the cheque.
They put the surname right in front of my given name followed by my Chinese name and I was wondering whether this will go through.
This has happened before, and the bank often rejects your cheques when they do not follow your registered account name; word for word.

Well, I noticed the IC number on the cheque; okay, I guess that would be of help and so, with that in mind, I headed to the bank to bank in my cheque.

Two days later, I had gotten a phone call from the bank, requesting me to go to the counter as they are unable to bank in my cheque.

I drove there; with the nagging feeling that it is because of the name, and sure enough, my queries were confirmed when I was informed that the name does not meet the registered account name.
I nodded and then asked them again, "But it has my IC on it, and you can check my IC to verify my identity"

To be greeted by "I'm sorry Miss, you'll need to request for this cheque to be re-issued by the issuing party. We are unable to process this due to security reasons"

(HEY, I understand the security reasons or mock identity but I have my IC, passport and even Birth certificate if you want it or you can also contact my parents, relatives, colleagues or whoever who knows me to confirm that the name on the cheque is definitely me!!! Furthermore, I have such a unique surname I don't think can be duplicated so easily unless you fly out of the country)

*Secretly thinks to myself* I must change to another bank next time

As if she had heard me saying, she quickly added, "I think it's the same with other banks, all the banks have this same security rule"

I reluctantly nodded and smiled and thanked her politely, silently cursing the LHDN and wondering how she can possess telepathy skills.

Anyway, I faxed the cheque back to LHDN and wrote on the letter my specific request and the correct order of my name to be addressed to.

That was more than a month ago.

Last week, I received the letter from LHDN; two letters in fact, informing me that they had processed my request and in the other letter, my new cheque.

You guessed it, the same name on the first cheque which I requested for a change!!!

DARN!

Don't they understand my message? I wrote it not in English, but in perfect and grammatically correct Bahasa Malaysia!

And DARN my previous company which follows the American style by putting our surname first and now everything is messed up in the LHDN system.

Ughs, I have got to to make that direct trip to the LHDN office and rectify this...and boy, I heard that I've got to be real early to avoid the jam inside the office...LONG queues ahead huh?

Queueing for my own rebate? Unheard of....

Do you see them? They're everywhere....

2010-08-26T01:28:00.001-07:00

I am not referring to the you-know-what during the month in the Chinese Lunar Calendar; they are definitely everywhere, but so are another bunch of people whom you can see a lot and everywhere you go.

I am referring to our law enforcers, have you not noticed the increase in the road blocks, and the activities on the road where you just seem to catch a glimpse of them in their uniforms and their bright-colored cones?

Sighs, I just don't like the sight of all these road blocks, it just makes me feel uneasy, and those of you who have been reading my blog for the past few years will understand why I am not really fond of them or their activities.

So, just beware, they are everywhere....

Tomorrow is a HOLIDAY!~

2010-08-25T23:27:00.000-07:00

Yes it is, today is Thursday but it already feels like Friday!
DO you get this kind of feeling when the next day is a holiday?

Don't you just look forward to the fact that today is the last day you are working for the entire week?

I just pray that today will go by without drama. It is funny and ironic how whenever you are looking forward to just some peace and quiet for that day before you go off for your short and very-deserving break that things pop up which requires you to work late or extra just to close it?

I am praying and praying, please pray for me too, so far, it has been peaceful and uneventful and I am counting down to the next two and a half hours before I am officially free!! =)

*Peace*

Secrets~

2010-08-25T01:02:00.000-07:00

I need another story
Something to get off my chest
My life gets kinda boring
Need something that I can confess
'Til all my sleeves are stained red

From all the truth that I've said
Come by it honestly I swear
Thought you saw me wink, no
I've been on the brink, so

Tell me what you want to hear
Something that will delight those ears
Sick of all the insinceres
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect lie
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

My God, amazing how we got this far
It's like we're chasing all those stars
Driving shiny big black cars
And everyday I see the news
All the problems that we could solve

And when a situation rises
Just write it into an album
Sending it straight to gold
I don't really like my flow, no, so

Tell me what you want to hear
Something that will delight those ears
Sick of all the insinceres
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect lie
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

Oh, got no reason, got not shame
Got no family I can blame
Just don't let me disappear
I'm 'a tell you everything

So tell me what you want to hear
Something that will delight those ears
Sick of all the insinceres
So I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect lie
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away

So tell me what you want to hear
Something that will delight those ears
Sick of all the insinceres
So I'm gonna give all my secrets away

This time, don't need another perfect lie
Don't care if critics never jump in line
I'm gonna give all my secrets away
All my secrets away, all my secrets away

This is the song that I am really rockin' to at the moment and it is playing over and over again on my playlist.
I loved it since the first time I heard it on the radio, and it was one of my favorite pieces from One Republic although I liked the rest from this band too.
What can I say, this is one of my favorite bands, don't scorn me if you're a rock and roll or heavy metal kinda guy.

Ohhh, and it was also the main OST for The Sorcerer's Apprentice, cool isn't it?
I'm hooked.....let's play that once again *reaches for earphones*

An Illusion

2010-08-25T00:50:00.001-07:00

I think after sometime thinking and sorting things out in my mind, my conclusion on one of the issue is....................

I really think TOO MUCH!

It was nothing really, but I had to get all worked up and worried and upset over it.
I felt relieved that my prayers had been answered, it seemed like God did show me the path and enlightened me.
It was a hard road to get myself through but in the end, I was the one being eluded by my own thoughts.

So, one down, and I am happyyyyyy....suddenly the skies have just opened and it is just so bright......

*SMILES*

Fever and no thermometer

2010-08-23T21:33:00.000-07:00

I think I have gotten the virus again; the cold and fever.

I could not decide yesterday when I felt tired and unwell; was it the cold or the fever and then I came to the conclusion, both of them.

I had a headache as well and when I woke up this morning, it was the same thing again; headache and dizziness.
Imagine, I was driving yesterday with a throbbing headache and a dizzy head.

I felt warm and cold; and then I remembered to use my thermometer.
Only thing is; thermometer was nowhere to be found!

I searched the whole house; and all the boxes and ended up in exasperation.
I must have brought it home when I moved some of my stuffs and books home.

Did I mention I really hate moving from one place to another?

A Beautiful butterfly, is it not?

2010-08-23T21:19:00.000-07:00

I just found this photo and realized that I totally forgot to blog about this queer incident in my old place!

I think it was sometime in early June; where I was taking in my clothes from the balcony and noticed/heard some fluttering and I saw a big brown butterfly near the glass area.

I left the glass door to the balcony open so that it could return to where it came from.
For the next few days, I noticed it was still around in the house; and this continued for a week or two with it constantly changing places in the house.
(It appeared on the wall; underneath the TV console, etc)

Finally, I saw it fluttering its wings on the dining table which was near a window.
I left it alone, because I thought it might just spread its wings and fly away back to nature.

It was there for a few days and since it has been like that for some time, I just left it as it is.

However, something tells me it is not alright as I realized I didn't hear it flutter its wings that much anymore but I didn't dare to disturb it.

Finally, after 3 weeks, I concluded that it has already died and with the help of someone, we managed to get it out back in the nature where it belongs.

It is funny how butterflies and moths just know when they are about to die, and they would somehow choose the place they want to spend their last breath.

Interesting, isn't it?

Don't you think it was a really beautiful thing there?

Something's not right

2010-08-22T19:42:00.000-07:00

I am bewildered, since last night
I will share about it in my other blog (Starry starry night)

This morning I woke up feeling rather cold
I was shivering under the covers
I shivered when I took my shower
I am still shivering even with the hot sun shining so brightly through the glass panes in the room
I turned off the A/C in my car
I am now shivering underneath my sweater in the office...

I am feeling really really really cold....I need some warmth, I feel like I want to drop down and hide under the covers on the bed.
Is that the bed beckoning to me?

Flying Fridays...

2010-08-19T21:50:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it's Friday once again!
It seems like yesterday that it was a Friday, but then again, who doesn't welcome Fridays, be it school students, or working people like us, we truly and wholly adore and about to worship Fridays! (I am not into animisme, in case you are wondering)

Last Friday was a Freaky Friday; it was after all, Friday the 13th and as we all know, 13 is never a good number anyway in the Western beliefs.
On the contrary, the Chinese actually like the number 13 but I guess there has been too much influence from the West (media) that now number 13 is also shunned from the context of most numbers.

Oh ya, besides the fact that last Friday was the 13th, it also happened to be during the 7th month in the Chinese Lunar calendar; which is well known as the Hungry Ghost month.
Therefore, to most superstitious people, it is double the bad luck.

I am not a skeptic, therefore I will never choose to doubt.

I had a rather peculiar experience last week; a little too bizarre for my belief and I am not sure whether I shared it here or in another blog; anyway, just check out my Starry Starry blog for the story, as the experience was kinda spooky too.

What do people do on Fridays?
Young people like me are often thought to be heading straight out there to hang out with friends for dinner and then proceed with drinks at pubs/clubs or movies with the boyfriend.
Maybe that's why the roads are always congested with the traffic jams on Fridays (blame it on them)

I am not like that, however, call me passive or whatever.
I dread those long waiting traffic jams to get home and coming out again seems like a chore to me sometimes.
Furthermore the clouds and rain seem to have taken over the skies and I just love to go home and curl up on the couch after a nice shower with a good book (I am currently reading two books; one by Jodi Picoult, one of my favorite authors and the other is by Candace Bushnell)
I could also continue from where I left off with my current drama series, or hey, I could just use the time to blog/write those articles that I want to publish in my blogs...the list is so long that I need to write them way before I publish them.

Sounds boring or mundane for a young person like me?
I think it is just a matter of perception, I know perfectly well how to have a great time too, and I do go for movies, shopping and hanging out once in a while and I am looking forward to some traveling too.
It's been a while but things have been really busy, and I have been stressed this year. Things have been busy with the family as well, and grandmother, well, it's just a whole load of worries on my mind.

Whatever it is, freaky or whatever, Friday is always good for me, and it has always been my favorite day in the week, along with Saturday.
After all, Jesus too, died for us on a Friday, to redeem us, and that is reason enough to believe that Fridays are good!

I still have to say this and I really mean every single word in this, as this week has been crazy and frustrating for me, so, I really do THANK GOD IT'S FRIDAY (FINALLY!)

Have a great weekend, everyone!~

Blog Updates

2010-08-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

This being my main blog portal, I will be updating on all the statuses of the other blogs over here as well to wrap things up a bit on what I have been blogging as well.
Of course, alternatively, you can check out the right side of this blog and notice the other blog updates (only the last entry will be shown)

Since yesterday, I have been actively updating my Starry Starry Night blog; a blog which I keep for interesting stories such as legends, supernaturals, divine beliefs, religion, etc.
If you are the type who enjoys stories like these, you can check the blog out.
Recent postings:

Month of the Hungry Ghost has started
Difference between Hungry ghost festival and Ching Ming
What are Hungry Ghosts?
Do's and Don'ts during the Ghost Month
Cowherd and Weaving Girl Story
Hungry Ghost stories: Dead Man Feasting

My Food Blog
Restaurant in Mahkota Cheras
Young Hearts Cuisine

More updates coming up soon in the other blogs...stay tune, happy reading!~

A Good and Bad Day

2010-08-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was like any usual day, stepping into the office, checking emails and ticking off stuffs from my list to do.
NOT

I received a rather rude and sarcastic email from a customer and it was really upsetting to me.
I do not like nasty stuffs, and it was definitely not a great way to start the day.

Wednesdays are supposed to be wonderful, whimsical, be-Witching, wizardly, whopping, witty, and many more but definitely not "what-the" first thing in the morning when you logged into your Outlook.

However, the good thing about this was that, I realized that I was not really that emotional like how I used to be anymore.
In fact, I think I am starting to have a bit of a nonchalant attitude about things like these, and not letting them get into my head as I used to.

I remember my family and colleagues and even my boss telling me to ignore, as all these are just part and parcel of life (and work!)
If we were to get annoyed with every single thing we get, life would indeed be very short!

I felt unusually calm and composed as I read through the email and slowly typed my comeback; a nice and polite one to reply to his email.

Maybe I have started to learn to de-stress, or maybe my family's medical history has certainly taken a seat at the back of my mind.
I do not want to invite any inevitable illness to make myself suffer; I just want to stay healthy and that includes my mental health too.

Anyway, like how old people used to say, "The ship will straighten itself when it comes to the dock" (A Cantonese saying that things will always be right eventually)
Yes, despite the ugly turns (there was another following email to reply to mine with an even more nasty and ugly comeback from the customer), I was getting calls from concerned colleagues (who are now more like friends to me) who advised me on the solution to the customer's problem.

They were concerned and also felt the impact of the customer's words and decided to stand behind me as a team to counter and calm the customer down.

Well, I took it in a stride, I felt happy that I did not let myself get all emotional or upset over the whole incident.
Maybe I am more composed now, or maybe I am just getting wiser...and that means I am getting older?

The fate/faith of religion

2010-08-15T21:59:00.000-07:00

A sermon by the priest in the local church I go to, made a very shocking revelation during mass yesterday (Sunday)

He talked about the catechism classes and how children do not seem to taking them to heart.
The church has done a huge move to shift the catechism classes to Saturday instead of Sunday (I used to go to Sunday school on Sundays, well, don't the name sound something?), and at 4pm.

The notice had been given to parents since as early as November last year to make necessary arrangements for their children's tuition classes.

Yet, a recent meeting with the Catechetical team had highlighted issues such as children not showing up at the classes, or arriving late and yet being nonchalant about it. When the teacher asked, they simply replied, "My Mum dropped me late"
That was interesting, as they could show up 45 minutes late into the class and did not feel guilty about it.

If that is not bad enough, there is also the part where the church had contributed to the textbooks and used the funds to provide catechism classes on loan to the students so that they do not have to finance additionally on the books they use in class. It was a kind gesture by the parish, and obviously one which was uncalled for as they discovered that most of the books were never returned.

I feel shocked and sad at this news, and it prompted me to reminisce my childhood days when I was attending Sunday school/church masses.

I am not a perfect Catholic, I have my flaws too, and of course, being a mere mortal, I commit sins too.

I remember myself being closer to the church, after the passing of my dear and beloved grandfather when I was in Standard Five.
It was also a time when our whole family relived the faith and brought us closer to God.

For me, it was my first time experiencing loss in my own family; and it was definitely not pretty in my memory.
It's not that I was naive enough to think that my grandparents would live forever and ever, but it is never easy dealing with loss.

It was then that I felt the comforting presence of God and daily prayers.
I felt strongly towards my religion; and I am thankful that I have been brought up in the right direction as well.

My family were never extremists in their faith, but my dad and uncle were always there to share their childhood tales on how they would go to church in a taxi on Christmas and Easter despite being poor at that time.

I believed in God, and HIS great existence, despite being cajoled into the arts of science and being questioned on my faith again and again by people who are into free thinking.
I may not be the best person in my faith, nor can I read out any line from the bible if you were to ask me, but my belief in God is not to be questionable.

Our parents send us to Catechism classes, encouraged us to attend masses, and to read the Bible, and never ever do something which is wrong.
We were taught the right and wrong, and besides parenting from home, Sunday School was there to teach us about GOD, and guide us towards the right direction.

I remember how my Catechism teacher used to tell us, "To believe, you must have faith. People will always question your faith, because we are living amongst people who are all different in their own ways"

This is one of the main reason I felt that it is disheartening that the younger generation no longer feel the same way.

I have read articles on the Web, magazines, books and even newspapers to realize that we (Catholics) are not alone, as all the other religions are facing the same problem whereby the younger generation no longer feel the need to connect with God.
Most chose to be free thinkers, or staunch science followers as everything which we used to be believe in can be explained by science.

Furthermore, the Catholic foundation was also threatened two years ago, with the fame of a FICTION book which questioned the origins of Christ.

We are not the only one, and today, we are living in a world of science and modern technology, and is it necessarily a good thing?

The creation of man can be explained from science; in fact, they can even clone human beings if they want.
There is no room to justify God's existence.

People don't find religion important anymore, and they don't spend time praying, unless they face life/death matters or they need desperate help.

Don't think the Buddists/Taoists/Hindus/Muslims do not face the same thing.
Some people who grew up praying to God with joss sticks, no longer want to set up an altar in their new homes for fear of the effect of smoke on their newly painted and fresh glossy paint on the walls.

It is a responsibility of the parents to instill these values into their children's lives, and to guide them towards that direction of faith.

Children are always imitating their parents; when their parents place more importance on tuition classes, they too, have the same thought that their academic performance should surpass the priority of learning about faith.
After all, what is an hour or two per week going to make?

I am not here to judge on the above issue, but rather to think about the perspectives and consequences of the whole losing faith issue.

If we do not do something about this fast, religion may soon become a thing in the past....and do we really want to see the faith we grew up with go obsolete?

I pray to God for guidance, and for inspirations, that faith can be strengthened and that we can all be enlightened on the future of our faith and what we can do about it...

Our last ancestor

2010-08-11T22:42:00.000-07:00

Thanks for the warm wishes and condolences from some of you who have read this blog.

My uncle, aunt and dad have just returned from Singapore; from grandaunt's funeral and procedures which all ended on Tuesday morning.

I talked to Dad yesterday, and I was enlightened on the way funeral was conducted in Singapore.

I have attended only Christian/Catholic funerals so far and it has been nothing out of the extraordinary from our usual church services, etc.

My grandaunt was a Buddhist/Taoist and I was expecting that her funeral services were conducted in the conventional method that I used to see on TV or in other typical Chinese funerals; which include the circling of the coffin while conducting the prayers and rituals led by the Taoist priest who will be constantly ringing a bell.
Family will be dressed in white with the sack-like material hovering above their heads and burning incense and paper money while relatives come and pay their last respects.

My dad told me otherwise.
Grandaunt's funeral was conducted in a very elaborate manner; and in the local clan style; Teochew.

I was like, huh, what do you mean by Teochew style? I thought funeral is general in the Chinese customs?

Apparently not, so my dad says, as there was this Teochew association which performed the rituals.
They had praying and singing/performing of songs in Teochew, singing of filial piety and the great sacrifices made by our parents.
It was touching to the sentiment; if you understand the dialect/accent correctly, which was something my dad, uncle and aunt needed the translation from my aunts there.

It was not that they were not familiar with the dialect, they were all Teochew, mind you, but the accent was distinct from those that we speak over here.

The whole affair ended on Monday when grandaunt was cremated and her ashes were collected on Tuesday morning.

Also, I just found out that funeral services cost a bomb in Singapore as well, wow, it is really a FINE city to live in huh?

Grandaunt is now in a better place, and we pray for her eternal rest.

As a matter of fact, her passing marked the last of the ancestry line in our family on my paternal side.
She was the last of all my grandfather's siblings; the rest have gone to their rest (no pun intended) long ago.

She was 94, and was the oldest in the line. The other granduncles and my very own grandfather, also passed away at the ages of 82 and above.
Guess this was really a longevity gene which may be passed down to us as well?

With the passing of grandaunt, there will be no more way for us to track the origins of our ancestry and the root of our unique surname.

Rest in peace, grandaunt

It's a Family Matter

2010-08-09T23:06:00.000-07:00

It is something to do with the family; we have just heard some bad news from our relatives in Singapore.
My Grandaunt who must be over 90 (or almost 100) just passed away due to old age last Friday.

Arrangements had to be made immediately to attend grandaunt's funeral on Monday morning.

Our parents went on behalf of us, as she was the aunt of my dad and uncle while I prayed for her from the North.

Grandaunt was a senior figure to our generation and with that, I meant my cousins and I.
She speaks in a very deep accent in our dialect and it was really difficult for us to understand her sometimes without a thesaurus.

Of course, she was a great lady whom I remembered as one who bore such a striking resemblance to my grandfather (she was his younger sister anyway).
She is a cautious and wise lady but definitely one healthy lady!
I do hope that I inherited that gene; HEALTH!

Will I leave up to 90 or at least over 80, because it seems to be the trait in the family as well (or at least on my paternal side).
I am trying to imagine myself at 80, and still blogging...that'd be great.

Sad and shocked as I may be, I am praying that she had finally reunited with grandpa and her husband in heaven and watching over us, making sure that us younger generation never mess up our lives.

Rest in peace grandaunt, and I am sure you will always be remembered

Me in the Mirror

2010-08-09T22:17:00.000-07:00

You know, as I was pondering over the things happening in my life; especially those that upset me and how I feel that I could have done something about.

I have complained, whined and just rant in my logs about situations, myself and things/people around me and happenings.
I know that I should be doing something about it rather than just talking about it, it's not healthy, and trust me, I do know I should but I guess when we come down to it, we are just pretty much human beings.
(and human beings are never good at correcting themselves)

Well, I have had enough, of hearing myself complain or anything like that.

I told myself, stare at myself in the mirror and MAKE that change (a certain famous song belonging to the late King of Pop)

I am related to all the things which happened around me; it is me who is to be blamed.

Sometimes we are all just too used to blaming on others that we never stop to blame ourselves.
Why?
Because it's much better to put the blame on someone else.
We just like to psycho ourselves into believing that others are to be blamed for us being bad at keeping in touch, never calling when we said we would, doing something that made others angry, didn't want to admit our own mistakes, etc.

It is time to come to terms with that I am just as at fault; or even, I am THE one at fault.

I have brought disappointments, anger and misunderstanding unto myself.

I have hurt people who have cared about me, and I used to think it didn't matter because they were doing the same to me.

I don't think these are all related at all; the fundamental is, I am upset at how things turned out and I must be the one to make that change.
I cannot just sit there and complain or get upset about everything that happens.
I have to be the one to make a change, and not everyone else.

I am the one who has to change, and I want to.
I want to be happy, and everyone can be happy, or at least I hope I can make everyone happy around me.

I apologize to everyone whom I have offended or hurt, or neglected, I am really very sorry and the guilt is just eating me up.
I will try my very best, and I will leave to God the rest.

Stare, stare, and Glare

2010-07-26T22:20:00.000-07:00

July is a busy month for me; and things have been very crazy where I have been running around (as in traveling) and moving out.

It was yet another weekend in town, for a training and also on a personal reason; moving stuffs home.
After all that hustle bustle, we snuck out for a Sunday in IKEA, since it was on sale. (The whole Malaysia was on sale since 24th July; Saturday).

It was not a quiet Sunday in that area as well, and parking was like fighting for breathing space!
We were lucky enough to find a parking space in time, and we made a beeline straight to the IKEA cafe for a very late lunch.

Lucky us again as we managed to find a good spot (well, I found that spot) and we settled down. My parents helped us booked the seats while we went over to grab the food and drinks.

We started our meals; and there was this Malay couple sitting next to us while as usual, there were people standing and waiting for seats around (what's with all these people anyway, I can't believe the crowd at that hour of the day - it's almost 3pm, are they still looking for lunch?)

The Malay couple was done with their food and soon, their places were occupied by these three people; Chinese; a pregnant woman in her early thirties who sat diagonally opposite me and her mother and father(or maybe in-laws; well, they are an elderly couple in short) sat side by side next to my mummy.

They watched us eat; and my brother (who was facing the old man) was telling us how that old man kept staring at him and in fact, at all of us.
We were joking that they were just so weird and were they plain hungry?

The pregnant woman was also staring at my mummy and me, and we were starting to get uncomfortable (or I was the one getting uncomfortable).
It was as if they couldn't wait to shoo us out of our seats!

It got a little annoying to be frank; as we had desserts, and my parents were also elderly folks and my mummy couldn't eat fast.
They kept staring at our plates and watching us, and they seemed to be pretty sure we are leaving.

We chatted for a while, and mind you, we are NOT deliberately keeping the seats, but my parents just wanted to drink coffee, have the cakes and not in a hurry.

The woman and that old man stared non-stop and I couldn't help watching how that woman kept looking whenever one of us got up from our seats to refill coffee or tea.
It was really annoying!!!!

I felt they were kinda rude, and at the same time, I think they were just hoping we get out of there fast enough.

The rest of my family was not really rushing, but I always felt uncomfortable and I worry about keeping people waiting.
I know, I shouldn't, because we were not keeping the space for nothing, we still had food and we need to finish them.

When the guys went off to refill coffee, the pregnant woman started talking to the two old people in Cantonese and in a loud enough voice which I am sure she meant for it to be heard.
She was trying to explain to the old man that it is common scenario in KL where you always have to wait for everything.
Oh ya, she made it deliberately clear and she kept saying about having to wait and wait and how you just need to be patient.

I was feeling that she was being rather RUDE and inconsiderate herself, I mean, what on earth are you trying to pull?

Just as we were finishing, we saw a foreign couple who seemed to be having a bit of an argument looking for a seat and we decided to offer our seats to them.

My Dad beckoned to them and they looked grateful.
We got up from our seats, but my mum was still trying to finish her coffee.
At this point, it was only my mum left; she really couldn't finish it fast enough and it was HOT.

I told her to hurry up, I was the last one standing near my mum and at this point, I spotted the woman GLARED at my mum.
YES, she GLARED like my mum was some kind of mortal enemy to her and she kept having that look on her face that seriously, I can even remember until this moment.

I am always uncomfortable when people get nasty, but I felt angered at that look she gave my mum.
It was as if they think my mum was taking her own sweet time finishing her coffee or that she was probably pissed we gave up our seats to someone else?

I don't know, but that glare coming from a pregnant woman was really shocking and it was like some kind of visual confrontation.
I stared at her as well (not glare) and she looked at me, then glared at my mum and gave us all a look (as in my family).

I don't understand, have we really done something wrong?
I felt bothered by that incident, I know, silly me but I just can't understand why people do that, let alone, someone who is about to be a mother.

How could you GLARE at people like they were guilty of some hideous crime???

I tried figuring out where we went wrong (yeah, and I always wonder where I get the stress from!)
1. Did we deliberately keep the seats?
2. Did we take up too much time?
3. Should we not give up the seats to the foreign couple?

Yet at the same time, I thought
1. No, we sat there first and we were finishing our food
2. No, we have elderly folks too, and how can you rush five people to finish their food fast??
3. No, it was an act of kindness and to resolve a probably domestic argument (the husband was really annoyed with the wife for not finding a place first).

The key to the whole thing and how it could have been friendlier was that the woman and her folks could have just done this:
ASK

Yes, simple as that, they should not have looked that hostile and like our places belonged to them in the first place.

As we were finishing, they could have also talked nicely to us, and just simply ask us whether we would mind keeping the seats for them.

It is just as simple as that, but no, they chose the barbaric or rather their so-called subtle way by being sarcastic and incredibly rude to our folks.

My mum told me she even overheard the old man said while she was finishing her coffee, "I hate people like that, giving up seats to ghosts (rude Cantonese way of referring to foreigners) who do not speak our language"

I mean, are we seriously being such racists?

I don't know whether we are right or wrong, but I don't think we were very wrong after all.
It was perhaps a better choice to have given up our seats to people who deserve them more and are more cultured!

Tell me your verdict, and what you would have done had it been you in this situation

UNpleasant experience with the Flight and at the airport!

2010-07-11T20:59:00.000-07:00

It has been a very long time since I flew Air Asia; in fact it has been 2 years since I last took a flight with this World/Asia's best low-cost airline and I can't remember why, perhaps I have been enjoying the privilege from business trips to travel with MAS and even when on personal trips, I chose Fireflyz due to the distance to airport.
(Subang airport is considerably nearer compared to driving all the way to Sepang)

Recently, I had the opportunity to enjoy a short little break for myself to release the accumulated tension and stress (from work) and I was planning a trip to go home and spend some time with family and just, relaxing, doing nothing at all.

I could only finalize my annual leave at the very last minute (yeah, I have a lot of things to do and I had to be sure things are okay before I confirm my little break) and that left me with no choice but to brace myself for the higher fares for flights heading back to the city.
(I was not allowed to drive on my own, says parents and everyone else around me)

So, I went online, checked for Fireflyz and realized with dismay that the prices have not just gone high, it has gone ROCKET high and it way surpassed my budget.
Just when I was considering whether to make this trip home or not (I know I had to, I do not want to let my family down...I had told my Mum I will be home and it has been a while since I spent more than 2 days at home), I was suddenly reminded, I could check out Air Asia's fares as well.

I clicked and prayed hard, and thank God (HE heard and answered my prayers, thank you!), the fares were considerably cheaper and I could save almost RM100 for the return trip!

I immediately booked the flights and was really happy that I even managed to get the promo tickets for the returning flight (despite me having to leave early on my last day, which I seldom do as I am always homesick when that comes)

So, all my flights were early, and I was scheduled to fly off on Wednesday morning (Penang Heritage Day, which did I mention I love my company for declaring this holiday official for us? =)
My flight was at 7.30.am in the morning and I arrived in high spirits; at 6.00a.m. and proceeded to check in.

When I went to the counter to check in, the staff told me that the flight would be delayed (which I blogged about in my previous post) and so, yeah, I had to wait for more than an hour at the Penang International Airport, which, apart from its name, had nothing at all at that hour in the morning.

Fine, I was fine with waiting, but I just felt guilty for having my parents to wait at the LCCT for my arrival.

Okay, that was done and the anger was released in the previous post.

I heard during the flight that 9th-11th July 2010 is the scheduled period for Air Asia's system upgrade and all passengers traveling during this period should be at the airport at least 3 hours earlier to check in to avoid any issue.

I thought to myself, "Okay, I rarely had much time to fly back on relaxation purpose and it had to be this time that they upgrade their system???"

Well, I had no choice and come Sunday morning, I had to wake up at 4-5am to get ready to head to the airport at 6 for a 9.30am flight.
Yes, that's how crazy it was, and as my brother jokingly said, "3 Hours to check in for a domestic flight, what, you're the pilot meh??"

Yeah, dear brother, I was glad I was early, as despite that early hour, we had a lot of obstacles:
1. Road to airport was closed, and we had to re-route (thankfully we did not get lost)
2. Car park at airport was full, and we managed to find a space to squeeze through finally
3. The airport was in chaos - screens went blank everywhere, which the security guard informed my dad, was due to a power failure that morning and also, the system synchronization which led to the system crashing a few times

When I reached the airport, I almost panicked when I saw the status for my check in counter was 'CLOSED' and I regretted not coming even earlier.

Okay, that was just a small scare on my part, it was closed because it was not even open yet that time..LOL! =P

Anyway, on the screen, it was written, counter R57 (yeah, only one counter) and I proceeded to the security check area and then to that particular counter.

Screens went blank again and I spotted a really short queue at R57; I was passenger no.3 in that line, well, what can one expect at 7.15am, when the flight's scheduled at 9.35 am, right?

I waited and waited, and there was nothing, and no one there, despite the few other lanes having staffs checking in passengers to other destinations (R55 checking in an earlier flight bound to Penang and R58-59 checking in KK passengers)

Then the screens flickered and R56-R57 counters read our flight number and destination.

Anyway, most of us queued at R57 because that was what we read on the main screen and slowly, there was a short line forming.

Then there was a bunch of people standing near R56 counter and talking among themselves.

I was even watching a few passengers haggle with the staffs at the counter R55 and R58 and looking at the Air Asia Ground staff walking back and forth and fidgeting with their pc (obviously they were frustrated as well)
One group of people was even scolded by the staff as they were late to check in and their counter had been closed.

That was a short row there as the staff just redirected them to another counter, well, little did I expect, I would soon be having a little of a drama myself in a short while.

YEAH, in case you were wondering, I stood there patiently in the queue, while my poor parents traipsed around the whole airport (there's nothing much anyway in that small airport) and observed every single shop, restaurant and most probably everyone there.

7.30 am, 8.00am, and there was finally one lady making her way towards our counter R57 and she started up the system.

She took some time and it was 8.20-8.25 am before she finally beckoned for check in.

REMEMBER that group of people I told you who stood by R56 counter?

Well, they were also heading to Penang, and the queue at R56 counter had merged into R57, when most of them realized that R57 is the one with an actual staff to check in, well, almost all anyway, EXCEPT for this group of people and it was not surprising that when the first group in OUR queue started to head towards the counter, they steered their trolleys towards us.

Now, there was this tall and sturdy Caucasian guy right in front of me who was even earlier than me and he must have stood there for almost 3 hours?
He gave them a cold stare as they headed towards the bunch of ladies, who were the first in OUR queue.

The staff shooed him away and beckoned him to follow the queue.

My dad was beside me, helping me with my luggage and he warned me that these people are about to jump into our queue.

The staff proceeded to check in the first group and my dad went to inform the security guard that there may be chaos.

The security guard came and this fat guy in yellow shirt started arguing with him that they just followed the screen above the counter and queued at R56 as well.
He said it is not his fault that they only opened one counter and that they should arrange for one passenger from each side to check in, to make it all fair.

The guard told him that he cannot do that, as there is a also a queue at R57 counter and that he has to make arrangements with the people queueing up there.

During this commotion, it was the Caucasian guy's turn and he quickly made his way up to the counter.

While the guy was there, this queue-jumper-wannabe was steering his trolley towards him which means, he was trying to cut my turn!

He pushed his trolley right behind the guy, while I was still standing behind the yellow line (yeah, too obedient, huh?)

When the Caucasian guy was done, he just pushed himself towards the counter and my dad pushed me and went forward as well.

He slammed 6 passports in front of the counter and I handed my piece of paper with my flight confirmation over to the staff at the SAME time!

My dad said, "sini" and that guy rudely snapped, "SINI dulu"

The staff looked up and it was a SHE, a really short and petite Malay lady as well, who also snapped, "Dia seorang saja, bagi dia dulu"
(translated into English, "She's only one person, let her first")

He immediately went into the same argument that it was not his fault that he queued at the wrong counter when they turned on the screens which read that same flight number and that they needed to be fair.

While the lady was checking me in, she multi-tasked by telling him off (BRAVO to this lady, I forgot to ask for her name!)
"Encik, you kena understand, sekarang, system down, memang banyak masalah. You tak boleh buat huru-hara kat sini! Kenalah understand, sabar sikit!"
(In English: Sir, you need to understand, right now, our system is down and there are bound to be problems. You can't cause chaos here. Please understand and be patient)

Trust me, she was not exactly subtle and I was happy to see the man did not argue anymore but he just turned towards his family and bunch of old men, telling them, "I came here since 6am, I queued here since then!" (in hokkien loudly)

YEAH right, I was at that counter, remember, scroll up since 7.15am and there was no sign of him or his company and then he starts to brag like that?

I did not feel triumphant over my victory to be checked in first, instead I felt really raged by his stuck-up and non-shameful behavior.
He really think he was right all the way.

Yes, I do not deny that it was Air Asia which misled them to think that there were 2 counters open for check in, but as the staff approached counter R57, it was obvious that this was the counter open.
The staff even took almost 45 minutes to start up the system and you do not need to be Einstein or Newton to understand that you need to hurry to move to the correct queue!

He was just obstinate and wanted to jump into our queue!
HEY, we were queueing there earlier than you and we were also tired, okay!

Furthermore, the security guard was right, he should ask the permission from us if he wants to cut in front of us.
It is all about courtesy!

I will definitely let him in if he did ask me, as I do understand but NO, he chose to just ignore us.

There is no respect here at all.

Furthermore, I noticed he only tried to cut in at the first group and also at me (the third) and not at the Caucasian.

WHY?
We are girls; the first group was three young girls from USM (I think, they had bags bearing that logo) and he tried to take their place.

Then he headed behind the Caucasian.

Now, if that is not SEXISM, what was that????

I was furious that he thought that he was right and that he deserved to take his place in OUR queue!
Bear in mind, only him and his family, and company of old men who were still left in that non-existent queue!

The rest of the people who earlier formed that queue had merged into our queue quietly upon noticing the staff at our counter.
So, WHAT is HIS problem??

Well, he never dared to look at us in the eye, and it was really unfortunate that I was on the same flight with him but I noticed he barely dared to look at me even when we arrived in Penang.

Arrogant and conceited, I was even tempted to use the word Hooligan!

Thank goodness I had a nice pregnant Malay woman sitting next to me, whom I even helped with her luggage.
I offered and then another Indian lady with a child behind me asked for my help as well to take her small bag from the top cabin =)

It was not that bad after such an unpleasant experience as I did manage to help others too.

I am really upset about that incident, as I felt that there should be no reason for people to behave like that!

Oh, to make all of us feel better, they were Indonesians (a glance at the passport he slammed on the counter confirmed that)....

Now, status quo, I was never a fan of this country and recently I even thought of going to Bali for a trip, and now, after this, WHAT on earth was i thinking????

A start to a no-stress BREAK?

2010-07-07T01:19:00.000-07:00

Today is finally the start of my little longer-than-usual-weekends deserving break (well, officially it started right after 5.30pm yesterday~)

I was looking forward to a little something like this, to relax my mind and take myself to just pure relaxation and enjoy that having nothing-to-do kind of feeling, and also as encouraged by my loved ones.

I was kinda thinking that maybe, just maybe, I could try to enjoy a little bit more and let my mind off the hook at the moment and just revel in the thought of not having to go to work and all those stuffs.

The thing is, somehow, I kinda still dwelt on my work, and especially yesterday, after I have prepared presentation for my boss (yeah, I did that) and that just somehow stirred some sort of motivation in me...LOL, yeah, that just have to happen when I am getting all over everything.

Don't get me wrong, I still love being on vacation and taking a short short break from work, but, I just can't confine myself to do nothing, really, I know myself too well and I'd just find something to do!

Oh ya, on a continuous note, I was all flared up when I had to wait for almost an hour for my flight this morning which was supposedly to be delayed for only half an hour.
Best part of it all, I was only told of it when I checked in this morning and I almost loathed the way the guy at the check-in counter told me, "Oh, Miss, the flight will be delayed for 30 minutes"

Yeah, his "Oh, Miss" in such a nonchalant manner disgusts me, like there was nothing in those words.
Of course, he's not the one having to waste his time sitting at the airport, enduring the cold air from the centralized air-conditioning system and staring at people walking in front of you in a back and forth manner while you are trying to concentrate on your humorous novel, and yeah, "Oh Mister, I bet you wouldn't say that if your boss told you to stay back after office hours for another 30 minutes"

So much for a great start to a no-stress break? Yeah, that sounds great to me, agitation, frustration, and annoyance are just the best things to be in you to make sure you are stress-free (or reaching that level)

And if you wanna know which airline which took the credit for my 'great' relaxation, it's the so-called World's best low-cost airline where everyone can fly. Ughs...yeah, and everyone can be late and everyone can curse

I am gonna make myself feel at ease, after visiting my family doctor and the next few days, just enjoy to the fullest...I hope

Oh ya, I have to thank the Penang state for the remarkable decision in declaring the Penang Heritage Day the same week with the Yang Dipertua Penang's birthday, don't you just love these public holidays?

How often do you swear or curse?

2010-06-27T23:12:00.000-07:00

*Tut* that telecommunications provider for the no service when I am in the building!

S***, I forgot my cell phone!

I am not going into the four-letter word which has been used so universally and often that it could surpass our breathing moments.

The funny thing is, why do we curse and swear when things go wrong? (or for some, even when they are just having a perfectly normal conversation with people around them)

I was pretty amazed with some's ability to be able to import a wide vocabulary skill into their sentences when facing a crisis or in an argument with someone that I am pretty sure they have just made way for the creation of a curse/swear words dictionary!

Oh dear, it is certainly not that amazing when you see young kids as young as four or five using those same words when they converse with you.
Yeah, you are not going to believe this, but I have seen and heard them with my own eyes and ears.

For instance, this little girl who grew up with her parents who are constantly arguing with each other (yeah, you guessed it, using their 'great' vocabulary skills) and she just picked it up and even cursed and swear at adults who annoy her!
I couldn't believe my eyes when she used those Chinese vulgarities that I don't think I have even heard of before!

Another was related to me by a close colleague of mine who had a four year old son. Her son knows how to use the four letter word in the right context and the best part, even properly formed sentences!
It just beats her and she had to slap his little mouth and warned him never to curse and swear anymore.

When we hear this, we blame it on the media; those American television series which are constantly aired on our favorite television and easily accessible to our younger generation.
But are they the only ones to be blamed?

Have we not sworn or cursed, using words like "Shit!", "DAMN!", "Dammit", "F***", "Go to HELL!", etc etc (that's the limitation to this vocabulary I had and with a few of the Chinese ones) when things go wrong?

Did we stop ourselves in time in front of young children or even young adults?
Maybe not in front of your own kids, but in public?

Have you caught yourself using certain words religiously like it was some golden mantra from the sacred verses?

I have a close friend who used the word "Shit" more than any other words in her daily conversations that I had to tell her to stop doing that.
She was telling me how she was unable to control herself in time; perhaps out of habit.

I thought it was pretty rude and unacceptable, and I tried to offer my advice in stopping all these vulgarities for her in public.

It was simple; just substitute those mean/bad/vulgar words with nice words.
For instance, to make it simple, simply use the words associated to a class/group; i.e.: fruits whenever you wanna use a particularly mean word.

For instance, "Apple! I got the whole letter typed wrongly! Now I have to face those strawberry consequences!"

Now, isn't that simple, and furthermore, it could even make you laugh and crack your brains with creativity as you think of words to replace the used-to-be obscene words.

My friend had fun that entire afternoon while we were shopping as she constantly thought of new fruits and vegetables whenever she wanted to say, "Shit"

I am not sure whether she still remembered everything I told her then, but well, it's a try, right?

Go ahead and try, you will be amazed how different you will sound to people; or having people thinking that you are some kind of basket case (or fruit basket for that matter, pun intended)

Now, if you will excuse me, I have to go and talk to this Grapefruit of a customer to solve his orange issue.

Isn't life just great?

Another week...without holiday

2010-06-27T23:03:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I am turning into this public holiday-obsessed person on the hunt for holidays every week.

I think I have said enough about how blue can one get and I have decided to make myself happier by looking forward to holidays which can be so far away and yet, look so near (the folding calendar is right in front of me, it's just that I do not have Harry's magic wand to make that holiday appear rightaway)

It is the start of another new working week, and the day looked gloomy (not in my mood, but the weather itself is indeed in its glooms since the morning).

This is a busy week for me though, despite the no-holiday season as there is a company-organized event in my state and it will be arriving here on Friday (currently it's down south in JB)

However, I can't help waiting for it to be here soon enough to look forward to next week where there is the Penang Heritage Day (when is our HR gonna announce that it's a public holiday for us here?) and ooooh, the lovely birthday of the Yang DiPertua where we get our replacement!

God blesses rulers with birthdays falling on the right dates and fill our gloomy and long months with these holidays! (self-celebrates!)

Whatever it is, I just know this week is gonna be flying past me in no time as well, as I breeze through the presentations and in a blink of an eye, it will be Friday soon and then before we know it, it's the weekend!
YEAYYYYY...TGIF...

*Snaps back to reality* It's still Monday and for now, I've got to get back to work...here goes another appointment/meeting into the diary for Wednesday and Thursday...

Tells self, "Mondays are great, mondays are great..."

Pushy, only it's not me

2010-06-23T20:33:00.000-07:00

I am starting to be pushed around recently; I don't know whether it's because I am easily pushed around or whether they are just pushy people.

Everyone seems to be telling me to do this and that; Angelstar this Angelstar that
Since when I start to report to every single one of them?

It is a major predicament; and I am under a lot of stress lately which have already led to major gastro/gastritis problems which I should have recovered from but right now, I still encountered that sharp pain again, this morning.

I have tried to hold back any negative feelings or stress in my mind; probably it just went to the back of the mind, to where the subconscious mind was and right now, it's speaking to me.

There are a lot of things on my mind lately; and I don't know where it all started.
It is starting to worry me, and yet these unwanted problems keep coming, one by one.
I am tired of being pushed around, of being told what I should or should not do.

I am a very much an established individual and well-educated, thank you very much and I appreciate the liberty given to do what I think is right.

Why is everyone so pushy these days, except me....who, is being pushed around?

I need to relax....*Breathe in, breathe out* (Repeat 5 times) and tell myself, "My life is great"

Pink Day and I am Blue?

2010-06-22T23:05:00.001-07:00

Now, if there is not enough absurd days around added to our calendars, this morning I heard JJ and Ean (Hitz.fm morning crew deejays) announcing that today is the International PINK Day!

yeah, LOL, even Pink has its day; just like every dog has its day, so do every color from now on.

I don't know how relevant this is, but according to the deejays, it is a celebration to the World Health Day and therefore, the connotation to pink, I guess to wish everyone the PINK of health, maybe?

Well, whatever, I can't be more glad for another reason to wear pink or to make everyone around me, wear pink...LOL

Only thing is, out of those 365 days where most of the time I will don something Pink, today, when it's the official day to wear pink itself, I wore Blue.
Now, you call that ironic or what?

No wonder I felt pretty blue myself!

Happy PINK day!!!~

I am definitely wearing Pink later!

The day a lizard fell on me

2010-06-20T20:15:00.000-07:00

Yeah, that was a great way to revive my blogging by posting on something as silly and ridiculous here, but it was simply chilling and just freaky for me, that I just couldn't get it off my mind and I decided to just, blog about it.

Well, I was up early last week and decided to do my laundry (yeah, I am weird, doing the weirdest things at the weirdest hours, so there).

After I am done, I headed to the hall and proceeded to push the sliding door open to go to the balcony.
I know, at this hour when it's dark, there are lots of lizards roaming around, or rather, still feasting/festing on the mosquitoes or insects who are just so stupid to be fed off to them every single night (they never did learn; nor do their mates, but how could they anyway, when each one dies at the hands, I mean, the tongues of the lizards)

Just when I was just pushing the sliding door, I felt something fell on me!

It was rubbery-like and felt a little cold, and it was just so quick; I think less than a millisecond, and it just disappeared!

I barely had the time to scream, not that I would allow myself to anyway, as it was really really early and I don't think I wanna risk facing my housemate, whose room is just next to the balcony after disturbing her from her beauty slumber.

I just felt so freaked out and yucky that I quickly hung the clothes and bathed.

YIKES....I still feel so icky after a week and I can never feel safe walking near any sliding doors anymore.

YUCKS, UGHS....silly lizard!
I wish I could wish your extinction, but I know you are the saviour from deadly insects and mosquitoes....but, oh, can I just wish that you would just disappear from my sight at least?

UGHSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSss...Major YIKES!

WORLD Cup 2010 starts from the WILD

2010-06-11T00:27:00.000-07:00

It's a FIFA Friday today; and not is it just a TGIF day for football fans, it is a boom for the whole world's electricity as everyone (football fans) will be glued to the TV till the wee hours of the morning.

After months and weeks of countdown, it is FINALLY here.

I am not such a huge fan of World Cup lar....as much enthusiastic I sound here, but it is just a great day for me, because, it's Simply FRIDAY!~

I am getting out of work again...and that, for me, it to rejoice....
(I seriously need to rethink my work focus or career direction, according to the magazine I read if I constantly look forward to get out of work)

Have a FREAKY, Fantastic,fabulous, and finally, FIFA FIFA Friday!~

Ole-ole ole ole!

It is the Haze season!

2010-06-09T05:04:00.000-07:00

The Haze is back

I know

Trust me, don't ask me why or how

I am sure of it

One thing I am good at, I am definitely better than any haze detector

Enough said

World's Ocean Day!

2010-06-08T02:01:00.000-07:00

Today is World's Ocean Day; which I found out on the radio this morning.

It is funny how we have a dedicated day for almost everything now; dead or alive!

We used to have only New Year's Day, Teacher's Day, Independence Day, Children's Day and all those festive holidays.

Then we have Mother's Day, Father's Day, and now, even Parents' Day.

Then there's Nature's Day, Women's Day, and then came along Doughnuts Day, and now Ocean Day.

Perhaps they were there all the while, and it is just that most of us were not aware of their existence?

I guess in the future, everything will have a day....CD Day, Laptop Day, Milk Day, Condo Day, Bridge Day, Watermelon Day, Apple Day, Char Koay Teow Day, etc

Every dog has its day; erm....I mean, everything has her day now!

What kind of reverse psychology is THAT?

2010-06-01T02:35:00.000-07:00

Just when I was crashing my whole head over my performance and driving myself to achieve the results, I have to face some bashing from so-called management.

I can't exactly reveal which level or more in specific for fear of obvious reasons (if anyone were to chance on this blog)

I just feel really frustrated; along with the stress of work and also frustration.
I had been motivating myself and not even b****ing about things when my annual leave was held back temporarily (yeah, kinda, it was not exactly a mandate but it was some kind of instruction to all managers to hold back our leave and not encourage leave application)

Just when I keep trying to push myself in a very motivated manner, I get calls and so-called 'pep talks' from the 'management' to improve this and that.

You know what they tell you in all those motivational books and talks about reverse psychology and motivating your staff by giving compliments and praises once in a while, well, this guy did exactly the opposite of that.

Worse still, he treated me as though I am some kind of idiot who did not know how to use computer; desktop sharing, communicator and Excel!
Oh ya right, he was the smartest of all, i know.

I felt even more abashed after a round of meeting with him only; and there are more to come; weekly (yeah, remember my micro management post much much earlier?)

I don't know what kind of effect is he trying to push me towards; because I just felt so much de-motivated after all his pep talks!
Yeah, ego bashing and all....he makes people feel way below him and I am not the only one who felt that way, even my admin feels disgusted with him and frowns whenever he is on the phone.

How much can one do to one's ego?
Plenty, I tell you

The right choices of words can alter the overall perception/perspective towards a situation
You could change a pessimistic person to an optimistic person or vice versa

Somehow, this guy is good at the latter, and I think, he should probably consider writing a book

Title?

How to CRASH your employee's ego

Where do I get my inspirations?

2010-06-01T02:21:00.000-07:00

I am locked in the season where I am constantly in off and on mode for blogging and that is annoying I know.

Sometimes I have so much I want to blog about and when I finally have the opportunity to log on to my blog, I forgot what I wanted to write about previously.

It's funny but I guess there were really too many things on my mind at a time.
There were so many times I can even lose concentration when I am driving on the road
(ssssshhhhh, don't tell my Mummy and Daddy about this)

Yeah, and it hit me that I always get my ideas or inspirations when I am driving on the road.
I guess that's perhaps one reason why I loved driving long distance! (I get to relax my mind and with my favorite songs/music on the playlist, I just ponder far and beyond)

Again, I have so many things on my mind recently and yeah, I have been driving back and forth for business; actually to a nearby neighboring state with my colleague and albeit the banter we had, I also had so many ideas on my mind!

Right now, I was so inspired that I logged on almost immediately to the Internet today and tried to blog and suddenly, the long list on my mind seemed to have disappeared!

My oh my, now I need to recall everything again.....I am stressed!

Of Astrology and Horroscopes

2010-05-20T20:42:00.000-07:00

Do you believe in these astrological signs/horroscopes/starscopes (whatever you call them)?

I flipped through magazines or newspapers to see my readings once in a while when I am at it, but I don't really believe fully in them.

I don't really watch all those astrological predictions during Chinese New Year programmes; proclaimed to be predicted by prominent fortune tellers or Feng Shui masters.

I don't dismiss them as crap either; but I just do not like to indulge in these dwellings as I do not want myself to be influenced and empowered by all the readings and let myself get carried away, worrying about this and that for the entire year.
(I am already a worry wart anyway)

This year, I heard a thing or two about my Chinese astrology sign and also read about my horroscopes and I hate to admit it, but a thing or two seemed to have come true for me.

It did not exactly hit off with such a good start this year too; and there have been road mishaps (twice!) and also, I have been struck by major illnesses.

I did not relate all these incidents to the readings/predictions initially, but I just realized it all of sudden (it just hits me!)

Sad to say, I've been involved in two accidents this year; and the most recent one made me really upset.
Thank God, that I was safe and unharmed from the accidents but the damages, though not major left me feeling sad.

Then illnesses also made me break down (after my vow not to fall sick this year and I have done pretty well so far, with no medical leave taken since the start of this year!) but last two weeks, I fell really sick; with all the major illnesses and it had me in bed through the weekend even!
(I do hate falling sick on weekends!)

I just hope things will slowly get better; and anyway, just a peek told me that things should change for the better sometime in May/June...and I do hope, that would be true =)

Are you a follower of astrology/horroscopes?

Happy Teachers' Day!~

2010-05-16T19:47:00.000-07:00

It's Teachers' Day today (or rather, yesterday, on the 16th of May)
I never forget this date since I entered Standard One; all the way back when I was just 7 (that seems so young!)

I remembered how we used to look forward to this day; besides the year-end class party and Children's Day where we get to have fun all the day and no homework.

This is a day for the teachers, where they all the attention (and presents) from the students. They are given the free permits not to teach on this day, and just sit back and relax, and enjoy the performances and food spread prepared especially for them.
Of course, at the same time, we get to enjoy the whole day of not having to go through classes and doing homework (something to cheer about when you are a student, although I still love doing my homework and classes, yeah, I am absurd)

I also remembered how I used to pester and bug my Mummy and Daddy to bring me to the nearest supermarket (they used to only have small supermarkets and you have to travel further to the city centre to the bigger malls which we only do on weekends).
(No, I don't stay in a remote village kay)

I would get a piece of Manila cardboard (costs 40 cents then) and cut out the size of a nice card and then I would work on the card after school in the afternoon.
After that, I would wait patiently for Daddy to come home after work and asked him sweetly if he would bring me to buy some flowers for my teacher.

Daddy would shake his head sometimes and tell me that it is not practical.
I would have to bug him but good ol' Daddy always will bring me eventually (or so I know since he always has a soft spot =)

I would be so happy with that single stalk fresh rose which I would put on the dining table and then I would happily bring it to school to present to my form teacher.

I never thought of asking Daddy to buy more flowers so that I could give each of my teachers, although I have friends who do so.
I did not want to burden Daddy financially; as I do know how hard Daddy worked to earn money out there, as our Mummy used to teach us to spend money wisely.

However, without the flowers, I still made sure I went up to each and every of my teacher to wish them "Happy Teachers' Day"

I still remembered every single one of the teachers who taught in school; from my pre-school to my high school, no kidding.

I am grateful to each and every one of them, for without them, I would not be where I am today.
That is why I still feel thankful for teachers each time Teachers' Day is around as I relive all those school days' memories with a smile.

Teachers are to us, almost the equivalent of a second parent who guides and teaches us everything that is to get us to where we are today.
They are generous and selfless individuals who shared their knowledge and made sure we excel.

For this, I would like to say once again, to each and every of my teacher, whether school or Sunday School, or lecturer, or whoever have taught me at one point or another when I was a child.

Thank you....

Pre-school (Caritas)
Year 1: Ms Tan
Year 2: Ms Ong (thank you for teaching me the fan dance =)

Primary School
Std 1: Cikgu Vani
Std 2: Pn Raja Jam
Std 3: Ms Mazliza/Cikgu Vani/Mrs Mok
Std 4: Ms Assunta (I still see you around in church!)
Std 5: Mrs Yap
Std 6: Mrs Lim (form & Maths teacher), Ms Pearly Yap (English), Pn Maznah (BM)

Secondary School
F1: Cik Sofia
F2: Puan Siti/Puan Mashita
F3: En Hussein
F4: Pn Fariza
F5: Mr Lee

To all my Language teachers who have moulded and encouraged to WRITE, SPEAK and appreciated my flair =)

I just want to say a big THANK you to each and every one of you...

To all the TEACHERS out there, you are the greatest people and you are always remembered by your students, even though you may have forgotten about them =)

HAPPY HAPPY TEACHERS' DAY!~

Driving blues

2010-05-16T18:50:00.000-07:00

Instead of being sucked into the familiar aura of the blues surrounding the moody Monday, I stepped out of the zone to share with you on some of the other blues faced.

Take for instance, driving.

I know we have a lot of crazy (or insane is a better word) drivers here in our country; fantasizing their dreams of being a Formula One driver and unfortunately unleashing their fantasy on the road.

Well, there are a lot of negative things which irks us when it comes to being on the road and I am sure each of us has our certain levels or tolerance (or intolerance) when it comes to dealing the other behaviors on the road.

1. Swerving in and out of the lanes and dashing back into the line in a nick of time
2. Driving really slowly on the fast lane and not moving to the left/slow lane even with repetitive flashings/honking (maybe they don't even know their left or right)
3. Tailgating even when you are on the left lane! (yes, again, guess they didn't know their left vs right)
4. Driving with their high beams on
5. Installing those bright, white blinding lights which just momentary blinds you when coming from the opposite road
6. Attempts to race you with even when you have no intention to (i.e.: revving up their engine loudly and exhuming the toxic gas when you are both stopping at the traffic lights and then speeding off in their ultra-modified car which looks like a sports car but is actually Proton/Perodua beneath all that metal shield)
7. Not putting on their signal when they want to turn into the lane, making last minute turns
8. Emergency brakes screeching behind you
9. Talking on the phone and crawling the WHOLE way on the single lane
10. Throwing rubbish out of their window (UNCIVILIZED!)

However, there is one thing that irks me the most and simply cannot be tolerated are ..............

QUEUE JUMPERS!

I simply have no room of tolerance for these folks who can't just wait in their line.
But that is not the worst yet, as the real monsters are those who try to cut the queue by forming another line and steering their cars CLOSE to your car on the LEFT side.

Yes, LEFT...and that was exactly the same monster I faced this morning while driving to work.

I was in a good mood and was driving especially slow and careful this morning (not that I am reckless every other day though) and then when it came to this junction where we had to make a turn at the traffic light, I noticed a grey Proton Wira just right next to my car on the left.
I did not even see him before that, and I've driven on the road every day to work for the past one year or so and it's a one-lane turn at the junction and the space is simply just limited for a car.

He kept steering his car dangerously towards my position and I refused to give in as well!

I won, but it's not a victory of winning another car in a bid to race, but rather, an effort to keep these reckless and inconsiderate drivers at bay!

I cannot tolerate people like these who just budge in from an already narrow lane, so be there!

I shall not let him spoil my working Monday...but to the Proton Wira who almost "kissed" my car this morning (I know your car plate), I hope you will consider others' safety when you drive around please....

Absurd telebanking verification

2010-05-13T18:43:00.000-07:00

Recently I have a rather unusual and annoying encounter with a telebanker for one of my credit cards whereby I was calling to update on the mailing address.

I will not elaborate further in paragraphs but in the following conversation excerpt.
I called the bank and after going through the annoying computerized version of "Press 1, For Credit card, press 2...etc" (I wonder why they have to keep this computer-talk for so long that they left me wondering sometime whether are there humans working in the place), I was put on the line to talk to this telebanker.

First of all, it was not that I had anything against him since I did not know him in the first place but there is one thing that irked me the most; people trying to speak fast and in a faked and highly accented English language.
I don't mind the natives of the different countries doing so, since it is their language accent after all, but when Malaysians or Asians do that, it is just unnerving, isn't it?

Alright, brush past the annoying part, now I explained to him about my intention and he of course, asked for my credit card number and then the next part is the verification process..

Annoying telebanker: May I have your ID please?
Me: XXXXXX-XX-XX
Annoying telebanker: Thank you, ma'm, now may I have your mother's maiden name please?
Me: XXX
Annoying telebanker: Thank you very much, and now for the final question, when was the last time you charged the card?
Me: Okay, I cannot remember as I have not used this card for a year or so now

At this point, the Annoying telebanker starts to read in some kind of script but because his English was so strong in the faux accent, I really could not hear a thing except this few sentences:
"It is very important to have answer all verification questions correctly....blah blah blah....advise you to go to our nearest branch...blah blah blah"

I just went, "HUH? what did you just say again? Why do I need to go to the nearest branch and what is the telebanking for?"

Believe it or not, the guy did not even explain anything but proceeded to read the above script again!!
He was like some kind of gramophone record which was reset and then played again.

I tell you, his English really got on my nerves and I just asked him, "What went wrong? I thought we have just done the verification, which question was wrong?"

HE told me, "You were unable to tell me the last time you charged the card"

Greeeeaaaattt.....I could steal this card from someone and could give the P&C information of the owner's IC and mum's name and I must know where he charged the card.

That is the darndest thing I have ever heard!
If you tell me that I am unable to get my IC correct or my mum's maiden name, I am fine, but last time I charged the card?
Great, just great and I just told him off and hung up

Yeah, for the first time (or maybe second) in my life, I hung up on someone on the phone, which is pretty unusual considering that was pretty rude in my perception.

Anyway, after that phone call, I proceeded to the nearest branch and got all my stuffs done and just out of curiosity, I decided to ask the banking officer to check my last payment/usage of the credit card.

This is the best part; he showed me the data on his LCD; there was 0 data.

Get that, there was nothing displayed and he asked me, "You must have used it a year ago?"

I nodded and he said, "Yeah, that's why there was no data stored anymore"

I thanked him and I walked out, telling myself, so the answer to my last verification question was, "None, Z-E-R-O and I would not have to come to the branch"

Hahahha...great....I shall remember that and if you happen to that telebanker who talked to me on the phone, please contact me because I really want to know your name (i forgot it during my annoyance), and also, you forgot to wish me a good day after your "pleasant" conversation...

When the lights go out...

2010-05-12T23:07:00.000-07:00

No...I am not talking about Earth hour here nor an attempt to support the noble campaign but the lights really went out in broad daylight when you are your peak office hour.

It was a power supply termination from the national energy provider and this someone just walked into our office (sub-contractor) and handed the admin a red notice and muttered, "We are going to cut your electricity due to bad payment" and the moment he walked out, so did the lights.

I was surprised at how this was handled as there was no previous notice (yellow: warning as the guy allegedly said) and the electricity was terminated immediately.
Furthermore, according to the admin, there was a secured deposit fee for the offices in TNB and there is no reason that power cut should occur just like that.

There was a lot of drama going on as our dear admin tried to check with our own Head office colleagues and it took about two days.

Get this, we were only late for one week and our deposit fee was definitely two to three times more than the amount due.

I don't know what went wrong anyway, but it was really tough sweating it out especially when yours truly has just recovered from a bad bout of flu.

Of course, the plus point was being able to relax and work from Starbucks with a cup of cappucino/frappucino/ice blended in your hand.

Sounds luxurious?

The funny part was, this incident actually touched me in a different way.

Funny how we don't seem to appreciate comfort we were exposed to each day and tend to take it for granted.
Each morning I step into the office, I just sat on my chair, turn on the power and begin to work on my laptop.

I fill my cup with the water from the dispenser; with a choice of either hot or cold or both and can brew a cup of coffee or tea if I want to (although I drink neither)

When the sun is hot outside, I don't even feel the heat nor sweat as I just tap away at the laptop.

Just one hour when the power supply was cut, and we start to curse and swear at how hot it is and how can we not have air-cond or electricity to work.
We don't even remember how our predecessors and ancestors survived without all these luxuries back then.

Fact: We have been spoilt by technology and the luxuries of modernization.

I am not complaining though; I simply cannot imagine how I could walk out of the door without my cell phone with me, or the Internet when I am bored.

I cannot imagine how could we not have TV/DVD player, not to mention books of DVDs to choose from; nor could I imagine life without the fridge to store my favorite fruits/veges/drinks, hair dryer, laptop, fan, lights, and yes, the best invention of all during hot weather: air-cond.

Can't say I am not glad I live in the modern times, and thank God electricity has been resumed today!
I am back to work on my desk and I must say, I am starting to appreciate the availability of power more around me right now =)

Yeah, of course, I will not let Earth hour slip my mind...but let me enjoy a bit more of the luxuries of the cool air and bright lights after living like a nomad and Paleolitician for a day...I do deserve some pampering before I fight for the earth =)

Tiring and exhausting week!

2010-04-23T00:56:00.000-07:00

This has been a very tiring week for me; physically and mentally.

Although it was just domestic travel, I travelled twice this week and when I landed in the local airport on Wednesday night after two days of training, I was almost dropping on my feet.

I was so sleepy that I could barely feel my own weight as I traipsed around the airport with my extra heavy bags (somehow bags always end up heavier when you return from the trip despite containing the same amount of stuffs packed before departure)

I have been having muscle aches all over the body and heavy eye lids since yesterday and have been practically dragging myself out of bed and around the office.
It was quite hard to keep awake when I was driving too, I know, an extremely dangerous thing to do.

Things have been so crazy lately that I have again, lost touch with my blogs and it greatly upsets me, furthermore when I have so much to blog about.
I am still in high spirits, just not in high physicality..LOL

I am looking forward to more short holidays and vacations, despite being given the mandate that we are not allowed to take leave at the moment =P (shall blog about it separately)

It's Friday, and at least, there are two short days to look forward to for a break and rest...get away from all the crazy workload and emails and files/sheets waiting to be signed on my table.

Happy Weekend....and are we all looking forward to the long weekend next week? *winks*

Friday and a wedding!

2010-04-08T20:34:00.000-07:00

It's finally my favorite Friday here again, and it's gonna be a really hectic and short weekend for me as well.

I am excited as I am heading down to KL (home again) for a very old and close friend's wedding and I am meeting up with all the good old girls whom I have known for more than 10 years (I shall update on the trip when I am back).

It is a wedding which we have anticipated for years and it is finally a reality.
I am going down to give the bride a peace of mind and a big hug and wishing her everlasting happiness with her husband-to-be.

At the same time, I am gonna be celebrating Easter with my family again..and then Monday, need to attend meeting in HQ....

I hope I have the time to log on and blog a bit, but if not, you will be hearing from me next week.

Till then, have a happy weekend....(I am starting to fill my weekends with lovely things to do to weigh down the stress on my mind!)

TGIF and HAPPY HAPPYYYY Weekend! =)

Earth Hour 2010 - Disappointing response!

2010-04-06T23:58:00.000-07:00

On the 27th of March 2010, which was the designated date for the year's Earth Hour, the campaign was expected to spurn better responses compared to the previous years since it started.

I was excited that the yearly campaign is once again on and looked forward to being a part of a historic and meaningful event like this.

Last year, I took photos of the houses around my neighborhood and was quite disappointed in the response of the locals around my place.

This year, I was waiting in anticipation and decided to take it further from my place, to see the response from the island.

However, I was disappointed as I saw the raging and oncoming lights on the road and also the residential areas.

Scene from my condo carpark (close to 8.30pm)

Condominium

There does not seem to be any level of awareness from the public on the running of this event!
I don't know why, it seems that no one is bothered to even turn off the lights for only one hour to support this worldly cause?

I heard that it was the same for other states as well, now I think this is also probably due to the low publicity/campaign on the Earth Hour which led to such poor response.

However, the clear winner is this, Eastin Hotel Penang (and the PJ one too) as they truly supported the whole cause by turning off most of the unnecessary lights for one hour!
Brave and a round of applause to Eastin Hotel =)

This is a good start, to create awareness among the public and does not mean that you only observe this once a year.
If switching off unnecessary lights in joint effort can save so much in an hour, imagine if we were to individually practise it at all times and every day.

We are doing the Earth, the place where we live in a huge favour which in return benefits ourselves too! =)

So, start by making it a habit to turn off your lights when not in use, and remember to save the Earth by recycling, etc!

Thank you for the Palm!~

2010-03-31T23:53:00.000-07:00

The past Sunday was Palm Sunday; the day which marked the journey into the holy week where Christians all over the world observe the passion of our Lord Jesus Christ before Easter.

It is considered the most solemn period of the year; and fasting and abstinence, penance are all practised during this time.

Palm Sunday was a celebration, a day where we celebrate the highest point of triumph in Jesus's life as a man on earth as he enters Jerusalem.
It was also well known as the Sunday of the Lord's Passion and palm trees were symbolic as a sign of respect from the people who lay it down before Jesus when He entered the city.

We celebrate the triumph of the Lord, praising him for his coming, and it was truly the event which marks his glory and power as a man.

It is funny how when one man reaches his peak of glory, the next path is the way down the drain.
This is true for all of us, and Jesus as well, as he was crucified within the same week; whipped and humiliated by all in public after such a glorious moment on this Sunday.

That was why Palm Sunday was also known as the Sunday of the Lord's Passion as it marks the beginning of the Lord's journey to his death, to fulfill our Father's will and to redeem us, sinners.
It was probably the last celebration before Easter; as we journey into a solemn period to observe what Jesus is about to endure.

I went to church on Sunday; and I did not have a palm in my hand.
I was a little sad, as I recalled how I used to go with my family and we used to have a few branches of palm leaves in our hands; happily counting where we would place the blessed palms in each area of the house.

My family left on Saturday, and since I was spending time with them, I had no time to look for palm leaves and furthermore, I don't own a palm tree myself.

I did spot a few palm trees on the road; and also in residential neighbourhood but come on, that is such a despicable and downright dishonest act and I don't feel that it is that glorious or respectable for such a happy occasion.
Yeah, I still practise what I learnt in Moral lessons back at school.

I felt left out when I was in the church grounds; where everyone was with their families or with close friends, and even a small boy holds a palm leaf in his hand.

Perhaps it was my little reward or perhaps the Lord did not want me to feel left out, as suddenly a middle-aged lady walked towards me and passed me a palm leaf, saying, "Sister, a palm for you?"

She just pushed the palm into my hand and gave me such a nice and sweet smile, that I was stunned for a while, before smiling in return and said, "Thank you" and I silently prayed, "Bless her kind soul, Lord"

I also prayed and thanked the Lord for his blessing as I truly felt lightened up.

I think He was trying to tell me, "You are not Alone, I am always here with you"

Perhaps I was being imaginative, but I always felt that the Lord is right there beside me especially when I have a tiny hint of sadness in me.

Then the priest went on to talk about how we should look around us, and make peace with people whom we don't like or do not like us during this week as it is a week of reconciliation.

It is a time to reflect and look into our very own family relationships and try to see in each and every one around us, the living Christ in them.

I think I have just found one; the lady who had given me the palm leaf; and many many more around me.

My parents who had cared for me since I was young and would never criticize or discriminate for anything that I have done

My best friends who will never give up their trust on me and have confidence in everything I do

My uncle who always believed in my capabilities and stand there supporting me all the way since I was a baby girl

Colleagues who have been helping me out when I am distressed or being taken advantage; who speak up for me in unjust situations.

Church members who smile at me even though I am new in the church and even introduced themselves to me

I am sure there are many more out there that although I do not list them out here, I silently thank God for their presence each day and also for their happiness.
There is a Christ in every one of us, we just need to be proud of HIM =)

Praise the Lord and may you be blessed with the Lord's passion this week, as we journey with him towards another triumphant celebration.

Have a blessed and meaningful Holy Week!~

One week...

2010-03-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

I kept putting off updating my blog; and compiled stuffs which I want to write about and then I kept forgetting about it.

Anyway, I was also quite excited when I flew back to Penang, and reunited with my family.
They didn't stay for long, until Saturday, but it was good enough and I was happy to be able to spend some time with them before Holy Week and Easter.

The past week have been crazy and frustrating as well; mainly due to work (as usual, like, what's new anymore here) and I was constantly fighting against trying to keep myself calm, not to mention SANE.

So, what have I done besides work and spending time with my family?

Hmmm....the most prominent; being Earth Hour 2010 and also food tours and some marketing campaign, oh, and also Palm Sunday and the commencement of the Holy Week; one of the most solemn period throughout the Church calendar.

Updating my blog with more photos and stories soon....it's a brand new week and it's again a busy and frustrating week .....hopefully, I will still find time to breathe..or blog!

Going back to Penang...

2010-03-24T17:15:00.000-07:00

Had a long day yesterday and it was really tiring....
I only got back to the hotel room at 10++ at night, after meetings and dinner with my intermediate boss and colleague at a nice Balinese restaurant, which I shall blog about soon in my food blog =)

Anyway, I gladly went to sleep, given that the connection at the hotel was so bad (I was quite shocked as so far it had been excellent!)
I am starting to think that it is more of a problem related to my laptop rather than the network connection anymore.

I am happy to wake up this morning as I know, finally, I am going back to Penang to be with my family!
My colleagues and boss laughed at me when they heard about this coincidence; my family is there and I am here =P (Meanies!)

I am heading to the office for about 2-3 hours and then, off I go on the plane again!
(Seems like the plane has become like a bus to me these days)

YEAYYYY...in high spirits todayyyyyy

My welcome drink...

2010-03-23T16:37:00.000-07:00

Following my 'rather upset' post on my inevitable trip to KL, I am soon cheered up upon arrival at the hotel as I was treated to a welcome drink at their lounge.

Funny how I don't remember ever having that on my last visit (which was only a month ago?)

It didn't exactly cheer me up on the spot, but it did take my mind off the matter for at least a brief moment while I relaxed in one of those big couches (those were really comfortable, I tell you) and listening to the nice music.

I guess I was too early for the live band =P

My welcome drink

Alright...not so bad...

Arrived...with a heavy heart

2010-03-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

I boarded the plane with a heavy heart, I think this is probably the first time I've felt like this to make a trip down to the city in which I grew up in

Perhaps work has taken its toll on me, or I was just too tired/exhausted these days and of course, the fact that my family is also on their way to the North while I am leaving for the south probably played a role too.
Whatever it is, I just know that I would choose not to come for this trip; if I could.

I start to understand why frequent travellers complain about having to be away so often that they wish to be static for most of the time.
(perhaps we can never be satisfied too)

I think we wish for travel, then when travel comes, we complain there's too much.

I wouldn't mind going overseas; out of Malaysia...maybe I won't complain too much...of course, that depends on my schedule too.
But any schedule can be shifted if it's to USA or Europe, right....that's how the formula works..

The first time I ever felt so low in spirits when I stepped onto KLIA grounds
No rush to get off the plane, no rush to make a beeline to the arrival hall (because I know there's no familiar faces there to pick me up :(

I even took photo and remembered the details about the cab driver...

He turned out to be a very nice and trustworthy Chinese man in his late forties...

Well, only one more day...and I am back again....yeayyy!
Looking forward to a good weekend; Holy week is coming anyway...

Tired, and time to sleep soon, although I still have stories to share from my flight....goodnight!

Lovely weather but a sad me...

2010-03-22T19:51:00.000-07:00

This morning, I woke up feeling really tired and all worn out
I just feel so exhausted that I don't even know what got into me but I practically had to drag myself to work

When I step out of my house, I was surprised by the sight which awaits me outside my door!
There were these tiny specks of fluttering rain that it almost felt like snowflakes on your face.
I almost shouted for joy when I saw the dark clouds and the thick mist surrounding my condominium area!
It looks like Genting or Cameron Highlands at that point (my condominium is located really close to the hills)

The cloudy weather is finally here, but push away the momentary joy, I felt a little disappointed as I need to fly off from Penang this morning

Surprised that I am actually upset at the opportunity to fly home and to see my family for the first time?

Well, thanks to fate and coincidence, my family is on their way to Penang today as well to stay for a week and I had to be in KL for at least two days for some training which I was trying to avoid from going

It was a real bummer, and even with the light torrents of rain and clouds, I still do not feel very comforted

My heart feels so heavy to have to travel all the way and I am seriously not in the mood for business travels like these at the moment...
I just feel so tired.....

I am sad....how to cheer myself up now?

Will be on the flight in a couple of hours, hopefully I can update when I have landed in the Mud City....

A New Week...

2010-03-21T23:04:00.000-07:00

It's Monday again, and despite having those Monday blues (which I am sure the whole world is having too since today's also the start of school since the one-week school break), we still have to get up, get out, put on a smile and get to work/school for that matter.

Oh, life's the same and we go back to the regular weekly or daily cycle of waking up, having breakfast and driving to work.

Arriving in the office, turning on the laptop, going through some of the pending items/lists and replying my emails.

Today, is somewhat different from the rest of the Mondays, as there is a new regulation or rather implementation, where we are starting our new weekly meetings with the HQ in KL via tele-conference.

That was something which changed my weekly Monday routine (refer to my previous post) and most probably, my Friday routine as well.

Of course, I am not complaining (how can I complain anyway?), as I still have tonnes of things to worry about.

It is also the week where I have to rush a few things for my customers, projects and also traveling.

Yeah, of all the time to travel, I had to be traveling to HQ this week...
My parents and family are all coming up tomorrow and I may be required to be in KL...bummer
I am taking two days down to KL and will come back, all in line with the training in HQ.

Of all the time...

I have been typing away hard at my keyboard for the whole morning....I have to do some ergonomic exercises soon to flex the muscles on my hands, after what my aunt have gone through with her Carpal Tunnel Syndrome...it's scaryyyyy

It's just another Manic Monday again....

Micro Management is major UGH

2010-03-21T22:51:00.000-07:00

Recently my boss has started his idea of having a weekly meeting; teleconference with our office from HQ and it is not just once a week; rather twice a week.
Once at the beginning of the week and then at the end of the week.

Not pretty, I know.

So, how it all started, and what gives my boss such creativity after granting us the freedom and independence for more than two years?
Well, the reasons:
1. Proper passdown and updates to the other offices around the country to ensure that we are well-informed of the changes or decisions made by the management. This is also in line with their mission to fine tune and align all the staffs and teams to the same direction
(SHOULD have done this long ago!)

2. Perhaps this should be the main reason; the ONE staff who was clearly wasting his life away has finally caught everyone's attention (or NERVES) and something has to be done.
Making the staff attend weekly meetings leaves no space for work truancy or cheating; and of course, proper attendance to the office at all times.

I don't really mind having all these meetings as I am indeed working myself out but it does feel annoying when you feel like you were not being trusted to do your job (although I know, I am not the one in focus but still, I am losing my freedom and independence for another person?)

One person messes up, and now the whole world has to suffer (or rather, bear the responsibility for his actions)

It is truly sad and at the same time, it feels really sickening to be micro managed; I thought we have all left that behind at our school days.
Sighs, I am not afraid of micro management as I do know the reason behind all of it, but still, I felt like I was just the accompanying soldier in this whole thing...

Too bad eh?

Remembering my grandparents

2010-03-19T07:01:00.000-07:00

It's almost mid of March now, and there's only three days away from my late grandfather's death anniversary.
It will be followed by my grandmother's anniversary in a period of a week's time?

It has been more than ten years since their departure and I do still remember their presence vividly

My grandparents have always been fond of me ever since I was born; being the only granddaughter then and I was just oh, so precious in the eyes of everyone
Their love for me cannot be expressed in words, and although it was sad that they had to leave the world, we had learnt to accept their departure

All I can say is Goodbye, and the best song for them?
Mariah Carey's Bye Bye
I am sure the two of them are staring at me from heaven now, witnessing all my good and bad, my failures and successes as well.

May they rest in peace, and my dear grandparents, you will always be loved and deeply missed by all of us...

Where is the rain?

2010-03-19T06:45:00.000-07:00

Only two days of lovely windy weather, with clouds and strong wind and it is all gone again and we are back to the hot weather

Where has it gone?
Why only two days?

I don't know what happened, but I am missing the cloudy, windy and rainy days all over again

When will the sun go away and let the rain stay???

(I complain about the sun too much I think, that it's kinda mean =P )

Friday? So what...

2010-03-19T06:23:00.000-07:00

It's Friday again...I know that I am always blogging about Friday, TGIF, etc that it gets boring when I write about it every Friday

Usually I get really excited when Friday comes, but somehow today, oh well, it's just the end of a crazy crazy week and I get two days of breathing time and then it's all back to the whole cycle again

I feel tired every day when I get off work, so tired that I just want to lie down to sleep and do nothing at all

I am no longer that excited this Friday
Is there something wrong with me?

I am worn out from work, and there seems to be nothing anymore...everything on my mind is work and yet I feel like I am achieving my own expectations
I think I am starting to drive myself crazy with my thoughts

What is Friday anymore?
I know after two days, life will go back to normal and my work cycle starts all over again

I don't know, I don't feel sick of work
In fact, my mind is still full of work and how I want to accomplish and close every thing on hand and yet, I worry myself crazy too

What happened to my Friday excitement?
It is not right....I am always happy when Friday comes....what's with me...I think I need help

A break maybe? I don't know, and yet I feel afraid if I go away on a break, things will be left untouched and not worked out and then workload doubles when I am back...

I need to take a deep breath and tell myself, hey, it's Friday! Weekend's here....
Uhhhhh....so what...

Cute BMW 4WD

2010-03-19T01:31:00.001-07:00

I spotted this cute vehicle on the road last Sunday (yeah, it was raining at that time!)

It was a BMW 4WD; but somehow, I found something quirky about this design!
It just doesn't seem right....it looked odd to me

Does it look like a BMW being put on top of another vehicle; say like another MPV like Alza or maybe, just the lower chasis of a Myvi?

There is just something odd about the way this design turned out to be...

I even feel that it looks like a BMW being elevated a few inches high!
This, my ladies and gentlemen, is what they call innovation in design! =P

Serving the (right) customers

2010-03-18T00:07:00.000-07:00

Customer service is not for everyone and if you are ever going to go through this field, be prepared to brace all the triumphs and challenges that will come with the package.

I have always thought that serving the customers require a lot of patience and perseverance as we are dealing with people from all walks of life, and with money involved (they PAY you), we have to put on our best behavior to treat them the right way.

My first job upon graduation was involved with software, engineering and also applications support in a very conducive company; a company that I will live to remember my enjoyable working experience.
Back then I remembered having to work with internal customers as well, understanding their requirements and I had to do cross-site support which meant dealing with people from different countries; namely China, India, USA, Philippines, etc.
It was not easy although we were all in the same company as it was also across different divisions and reporting to distinctive umbrella organizations.
I recalled some technically demanding customers who had to have whatever they asked for there and then and whether you know it or not.
I knew it was not easy then but it was fun during the learning curve and you just enjoy challenges especially when you are a fresh graduate.

Dealing with internal people are different from external customers; I don't think we need an encyclopedia to detail the differences here.

It is definitely much harder and stressful to face some of those demands and unreasonable deadlines or risk being reported by the customer to your management.
Escalation is a usual process and customers cannot even accept it when you are away on vacation or even if you are on sick leave, bla bla bla.

My recent experience with a multinational company was horrendous and I feel really battered out of my wits by their demands.
I am not saying that I am fully perfect and provide the No.1 service and support, but headcount/resources were really low on our side and I have tried my very best, I really mean it.
It is not easy juggling between completing your already increasing workload and at the same time, entertaining every single request and demand that comes from the customer's end.

Of course, understanding from the customer's end, I do not blame them for getting frustrated with us at as well as they too, have their requirements and deadlines to meet. However, from my side, I have tried my very best, to every extent possible to help to work for them and coordination job is not entirely within my control.
It was hard working with the internal team when they are not cooperative as well, and yet you cannot expect the customer to understand this.

It will come back to us being the problem statement.

I feel really tired and exhausted out of my own wits to meet every single expectation from everyone.
(Or perhaps I am trying to meet my own expectations too much, and I feel that I am just useless when I don't do things right?)

I am worried about my own performance, sometimes I feel I am not doing everything perfectly.
Is that all to life? My work and in meeting everyone's expectations?

My boss told me this, "You can't please everyone. You could kill yourself trying to make everyone happy"

I am glad that my boss trusts that I am doing my job right and that the customers are the unreasonable or demanding ones.

However, why am I still not feeling at peace or happy with myself?
I just don't understand myself sometimes...

School Holidays

2010-03-17T01:39:00.000-07:00

I was wondering what was with the crowd in the cinema and malls last weekend.

There were so many people queueing up for the movie tickets, although we were there so early, compared to the other weekends after CNY.

I wanted to catch the new Disney movie; Alice in Wonderland, 3D version, and was hoping to be able to get some tickets.

It has been soooooooo long since I have gone to the movies that I can't even remember what was my last movie (or was it 2012? =P )

Anyway, I finally realized that the school holidays are already here and the school children are all out for their share of entertainment.
Disappointing for me though, since I wanted to watch a movie; especially this movie.

In the end, I watched Confucius instead (review here)

One week of holidays, but one advantage though; no jams when we go to and back from work!
Holiday for the roads too! =)

Rain marching into March

2010-03-16T00:14:00.000-07:00

It is already March, and the weather has finally taken a change for the better, thank God!~

It has started to rain in the evenings lately, a much welcomed change from the hot and dry spell we had during the Chinese New Year period.
Much as we love our clothes to dry fast during that 40 degrees celsius but I seriously do not like the heat on my skin and the discomfort during that time.

Perhaps it is due to the Chinese astrological calendar calculation that after Chinese New Year and come the 2nd month to the 3rd month according to the Lunar calendar where rain is in abundance, we will expect rainfall.
Furthermore the ancient Chinese astrologers deduce this weather in conjunction with the Ching Ming festival (to commemorate our deceased ancestors and loved ones) and somehow their calculations stand accurate for almost 3,000 years.

Well, I must say they have pretty good mathematical skills to be able to predict such accuracy.

Whatever, I am happy and welcome the change of weather =D

Need for Comment Moderation

2010-03-15T18:38:00.000-07:00

I am sure most of you have noticed that recently I have enabled my comment moderation where you will need to go through word verification and also wait for my approval before you can see your comment published on my blog.

I know, troublesome and tiresome, but I have no choice but to enable it as I have noticed a few annoying spam messages/comments flooding my blogs.
These comments are in no way related to the content of my posts and are basically spam, which I do not want to appear on my blogs.

I apologize for the inconvenience and I hope that you can bear with this, to maintain the quality of my blogs.
I do not wish for my blog to be spammed or worse, attacked by any virus.

Thanks for your support and kind understanding! (geez, I feel like I am replying an email to my customer =P )

Missing the weekend...

2010-03-14T20:24:00.000-07:00

Come Monday morning and the first thing that you think when you open your eyes is, "Darn, it's Monday again, the weekend is over"

How superficial we all are, we know we need a job to sustain ourselves and we need the money to pamper ourselves with little luxury items, and we are always so earnest and doe-eyed during our job interviews to convince others to hire us and yet we can't even cajole ourselves out of bed to get to work on most mornings.
Worse is, we can be bitching about it in our heads and yet we can walk into the office, and look like we were looking forward to work so much.

Haha, that's life; the same scene will put itself on forward and rewind every single week.
Like the sea, there is always the high and low tides sweeping up to the sand and after all, without complaining and grudging once in a while, where would we get the happiness on the other end, right? (a little nonsensical, I know)

While we have a long list to rant about what we don't like about working weekdays, I have decided to just preserve the weekend in my mind and tell myself about things that I really love about the weekend; so that everyday would seem like a weekend
(Self-psychology works most of the time to preserve our sanity in this mad world but if it doesn't, there is a book out there with the same title, 7-Day Weekend)

Weekends...everything about it is nice, even the word itself is comforting to the soul and what do I love looking forward to...

1. Waking up to birds chirping softly and the skies are still dark, and you know you are NOT working =)
I love to wake up early on weekends, being the opposite of the majority to enjoy that fresh and cool crisp air (the weather has changed, finally)

2. Having a cuppa hot Chinese tea during one of those dim sum breakfasts and sipping it slowly while you sample each bite of the delightful (and sinful) dim sum and knowing that you still have all the time in the world and not having to rush to get to the office before the meeting starts.

Besides enjoying the food, I get to do my people observation and it is fun seeing people of all walks of life and each with their own unique style and behavior.
(now I feel like a retired person sitting in the dim sum shop, talk about people watching!)

3. No meetings or business calls or any demeaning emails popping up in your Outlook

4. Not having to follow any schedule and doing everything at leisure

5. Having the time for me-session (my solitary time)

6. Cruising around the island in the car, taking in all the view and snapping pictures wherever I go

7. Pampering myself from head-to-toe

8. Going shopping or watching movies

9. No traffic jams or long queues at restaurants/eateries (except at the cinemas and the malls' carparks)

10. Time to relax and just RELAX!

I really missed the weekend....well, just close my eyes and count to 5 days...and then it's weekend all over again! =D

What Angelstar Blog Haven means to me...

2010-03-12T00:19:00.001-08:00

I am thinking of starting a few more blogs; yeah, again, as if the list of my blogs that I already have in my profile is not enough to keep me busy and they are already sparsely updated.

Well, it is an interest of mine and I like to diversify and specify my different blogs according to my personal interests.
I loved blogging and it has been more than 5 years since I have started blogging, yeah, it HAS been THAT long =)

How it all started? you may ask

Well, that would go all the way back to when I just finished my examinations and I was willing my time away, enjoying that freedom and that sudden extra free time that I have on hand.
I caught up with my reading and as you know, I really loved to read a lot and I was then already tapping into the Internet for more reading materials and finding out about things that I like.

At that time, I actually wanted to continued with my writing interest; to write in a freelance and leisure manner and therefore, I was wondering to myself, whether I can write articles on the Internet and that was where I stumbled upon the concept of blogs.

Reading a few blogs made me so inspired that I wasted no time in starting my own blog and hence that was how Angelstar blog haven was born.

It quickly became my main portal for writing and to share all my thoughts and views and I was so hooked on to it that I could not help thinking of what I want to write and share on the net.
It was even more addictive than those chatting tools like ICQ, MIRC, Y!M, MSN, etc which was the craze when Internet first started.

As I started to write more, I realized that I had too many things that I want to write about and I just did not want to crowd them into one blog. At the same time, it would be really crazy if I were to cram all 10 ideas I have in a day into the same one blog. It would seem like overloading the blog and others out there, if I have any readers, would be totally lost with what I want to tell in my blog, furthermore, with diverse topics.

Most of the bloggers do that, and they have their own styles.
My style was that I wanted to diversify and to give myself a clear and specific direction or portal to share my ideas on different topics.

As my blogs grew in numbers and in population, I still maintain this main blog as the focus site although there is no specific topic related to the title of this blog as how I have done with my other blogs.

If you check my very first post in this blog, you will realize that it started in 2005 and my style of blogging have changed over the years. I don't know, you can probably say it is related to age? =P

Alright, speaking of my new blogs....I will be announcing it when it's ready...I am just happy that Angelstar blog is 5 years old already! =D
It is my very first and personal blog, my first definition of my blogging adventure, and is and will always be very important to me! =)

Happy Birthday to Angelstar Blog Haven and may there be many more posts to come =)

Poor workers!

2010-03-11T22:01:00.000-08:00

Last weekend when it was so hot and we were melting even with the air-conditioning on in the car, I was taking in the view while passing by the roads.

I spotted a few construction workers on top of a building in the middle of construction under the very hot sun and I felt a spot of sudden guilt in my heart.

Here I am, seated comfortably in the soft cushioned seat in an air-conditioned car and I was complaining about how hot it is and how bad the A/C is, and there was this bunch of people who had to rough it all out and under the HOT SUN.
The temperature must be almost 40 degrees celsius out there and there is definitely no A/C; there was not even any sign of wind that time and these people must be sweating their glands out but they are still stuck there.

I really felt so guilty for being so comfortable or just enjoying my weekends lazing around while these people had to work and sweat it out on our rest days.

Am I worrying too much again? I don't know, I just felt pity for them and realized how fortunate we are...
Had there not been for them, we would not have comfortable houses to stay in or cool offices to work in.....but they are just, oh, so pitiful!

Lovely weather on yet another Friday

2010-03-11T21:18:00.001-08:00

It's funny how time just seems to slip us by
I felt like it was last week when I was just posting on my blog that it was Friday and how I was looking forward to a good weekend, and today, we have arrived at another Friday, only that it has already been a week.

How has my week been?
Well, pretty good and bad at the same time
I've finally completed my project tender documents and have also submitted them! YEAYY!!
I have collected a new project tender document (again) and have sent it via courier to HQ; this is one huge job which will get the whole world to work again.

Apart from that, there were so many things to rush for this big customer in Penang; a real demanding one where everything must be done immediately for them.
It is exhausting when you have to be at their every beck and call.

Oh, the high stress that came with my assignments this week has led to excessive acid being excreted in the stomach and caused a massive gastric and tummy upset attack, and I was crying for help and pain =(

Anyway, I am still slowly recovering from the bad attack after a few doses of the medication and keeping a close eye on whatever I am eating.
(this is always the case after an attack as my tummy will be highly sensitive at this point and easily upset)

It is great that we have weekends to look forward to after a busy week at work for the past five days.

Today's weather made it an even more lovely Friday to enjoy as it was just cloudy and the sun is nowhere to be seen, to my delight.

Know what I feel or dream of doing now?
Having a good book to read and a nice cup of fruit juice (orange) to sip while listening to one of my favorite song~

I love Fridays.....I hope it rains soon ;)

Rain - my reward/consolation?

2010-03-11T00:50:00.000-08:00

It's raining now!
I cannot believe my eyes, I felt like it's been ages since we had this hot and humid weather and only the last few days, the wind started blowing.

Now, I am really seeing rain, as in gushing water falling from the sky, yeah, in huge torrents!!
Wow, I am elated to see the rain, it's been so long!

It feels like seeing an old friend when I see the rain!

Perhaps it is a form of consolation from God/heaven for the pain I have been having due to my bad tummy ache/gastric?

Thank you Lord, for this little kindness for me.

It feels like a miracle, and all of a sudden, I don't feel so unwell anymore..call it psychological or what, I just know the rain always does wonders for me =)

My eccentric housemate

2010-03-11T00:23:00.000-08:00

I have two new housemates; yeah, since my last housemate moved out, the two of them moved out together and it is nothing to do with me.
One housemate had bought a new place to get married with her boyfriend (or rather, fiance) and the other had moved down to KL to be with her soon-to-be-husband too.
So, the two last housemates moved out because they are moving on to their next phase of lives; marriage.

I am still waiting for my fate; my next destination for my career and therefore, I am still stuck here at the moment.
I don't hate where I am staying at the moment; in fact, I kinda like this place and I am probably gonna miss this place if I were to be transferred to a new place or back to HQ (if that's the next decision).

Since January, I have two more new housemates who came in.
One is a slightly older lady, who looked rather sullen who will occupying the small room while the other is a chirpy lady who's about my age who's taking the medium room.
Well, originally, there was another young lady who came to view the rooms, and I kinda preferred her to this older lady, but since my housemate felt it was only fair for first-come-first-served basis, so that's it and the older lady won the race.

Anyway, there was nothing much new or anything to get used to since I have been used to getting along with new people for the past few years I have been living outside home and I have met good and bad (to say the least) housemates over the years too.

The two new housemates are okay, I guess, especially during the first month they moved in.
I have no issue with the younger housemate as she is just friendly and straight-forward. She loves to talk, a lot, but she means well and she's always ready with a smile or a hi whenever i see her.

The other one, however, was a little weird.
She just keeps to herself, like to herself all the time.
She stays inside her room, well, not complaining about that since I do the same thing myself, but my master bedroom has almost everything though.
She has a TV.

Okay, what I meant about the eccentric part was that, she doesn't smile at me at all.
The first time we talked was because she had to get the house keys from me before she moved in.
That was the only time we talked or smiled at each other.
After she moved in, she's like really quiet and she tried to avoid me.

How would I know whether she avoids me?

Well, I've noticed for a few times now, that every time I turned the door knob and go out of my room, and if she happens to be coming out at the same time, she would deliberately close her door and step back inside and wait until she hears me turning my door knob to go back into my room before she comes out.
If that is not eccentric enough, I've bumped into her face to face and even when I offered a smile on my face, she just does not want to smile at me in return.
Imagine, I was staring at her right in the face and I felt like an idiot back then, smiling and the other party just treated me like I was invisible!

Another incident where we met face to face was when she was walking towards my direction in the car park and I smiled again (I guess I never learnt my lesson) and she just looked straight and pretended she didn't see me.
It was so deliberate and it was definitely done on purpose because we were practically in each other's way.

Now, you tell me what's the problem?
She often wears that really sullen look and she talks and laughs really loud too, in her room.

Whatever, perhaps it's just my luck to have one or two of these crazy people as housemates once in a while.
Sighs...I want my own place soon so that I do not have to put up with such craze anymore...

Gastric and stomach ACHE!

2010-03-10T19:19:00.000-08:00

I think this year didn't start off that good for me, I have been 'awarded' with loads of injuries leading all the way from January until Chinese New Year, then CNY I had a bang and then I had body ache and breathing difficulties, and now, latest to join in the line is a bad bout of gastric and stomach ache.

Don't go pointing fingers chiding me for not eating and all that, but I can tell you that I have been rushing like mad for the project deadline these days that I think that is the main culprit.

Weirdly enough, somehow my gastric is never related to food, unless it's food poisoning, which I am probably forced to believe it this time.
My gastric and sinusitis is always related to stress and the bad weather (the case for sinus).

I am in high stress mode since I came back from my CNY leave, and things have been really crazy around here.

Yesterday, I was really in a lot of pain when I got off work; it was mild at first when I drove home.
Then I went out for dinner, and that's it, after dinner, I had a serious and sharp pain in the abdomen and initially it was like intermittent and then, the pains were really, *YOWL!!*

It was hard keeping it up in the car and I am glad I was not the one driving as the traffic was really bad (it is always bad when you are in an emergency!) and I had to keep gripping onto something, I don't know, I think it's psychological that when we are in pain, we always want to release the force of the pain to another medium.

I grabbed the upholstery of the car and my handbag and it was still really painful.
I had gone pale by then and I know the driver must have panicked upon seeing my look as I seldom complain or keep so quiet during the entire trip, wriggling and writhing my way on the seat.

I even dug my fingers deep into my hands; and even tried to bite myself to divert the pain away from the nerves, no, it did not help, in fact the pain got worse.

Look at the marks it left me even until this morning

My stomach's still feeling rather edgy today, but I have come to work anyhow and I don't think it's a wise move as the pain is still so bad, and it's making me very uncomfortable...

I have taken my 2nd dose of my medication, and if it gets worse....I will have to force myself to see a doctor.....
Gosh, the pain.....it's still there....

Strained muscles

2010-03-09T20:40:00.000-08:00

I have overstrained the muscles on my arms yesterday and today, I am feeling the pain and discomfort on both my arms!

It was unintentional; as I was expecting to spend the entire day in the office, preparing and compiling all the tender documents for the latest bid job.
I received a text message from my colleage cum manager in KL; asking me to collect another set of documents from our consultant in Gurney.

Being told that it was urgent, I took off in my car and drove straight to Gurney Tower to collect the project documents from the appointed consultant.
Already, I was not concentrating and had missed a turn, but anyway, I was still on time to meet up with him.

I parked my car a short distance away; paid my 40 cents due for the parking space and strode straight into the building, making my way to the 20th floor.

When I met the consultant, he explained the nature and the scope of the project to me and then told me that I'd have to bring the mechanical and electrical drawings back to my technical team.

"Alright then" I say
His next question caught me by surprise, when he asked, "Did you drive?"
This was unusual, typically they don't really ask you these, because they don't care
so I just told him, "Yeah"

"Those drawings are rather heavy, you know", he says to me

I was like wondering to myself, Like, how heavy can these drawings get, right?
Wrong thought!
I looked at the long rolls of the large-sized papers; possibly A2 or something rolled together in a scroll and still told myself, "how heavy could these possibly get, it's paper"

When I tried to life one roll, I almost fainted.
It was so heavy that it was unimaginable.
Yeah, perhaps I was weak too, but even the big guy mentioned it was really heavy!

He kept telling me to drive my car over and I told him I could manage.
I thought it was one roll; then he said, there is another roll.

He laughed and kindly, he offered to bring these to my car.
Thank God!

However, he helped to carry only one roll; leaving me with the other roll.

Oh my gosh, I felt like a labourer (no offense meant here) when I was heaving these rolls of drawings (what kind of silly drawings are these anyway) to my car.

Then he had the cheek to tell me, "Oh, actually we do have the soft copies of these drawings which I can send to your colleagues if you want, but we thought it would be easier if we gave them the hard copies directly so that they can refer"

*FAINTS*!
If I had a knife....goshhhh

And...that's how I ended up with all the muscles aching over me today; actually even since yesterday.
I think they should consider including fitness test into their interview subsections the next time they want to hire an engineer...

Accident @ Bayan Lepas

2010-03-09T20:28:00.000-08:00

I saw an accident along Bayan Lepas; near the first flyover before you approach the intersection heading to Bayan Mutiara/Queensbay (coming from the bridge).

I was coming along the coastal road; from the bridge exit's direction when traffic slowed down tremendously.
I was left wondering (or guessing) that it could be yet another police's road block which was rather common these days on this island.

However, when I was approaching the overhead bridge, I saw a Kancil parked in the midst of the two giant pillars holding the bridge and 2 police cars parked by the side.
The policemen were hovering over the driver; whose car door was wide open and that was where I saw the driver, with his head rested on the steering wheel with his eyes closed and his hands were just hanging lifelessly.
It was a disturbing sight, for me, as I saw his hands dangling by the side and covered with blood.

I do not know what kind of accident that was; or how it happened and I had no time to find out anyway as I had to get on with my driving and through the traffic.

I only know that it caused the slow traffic even an hour later as the busy office workers are informed by the radio of the accident.

I pray that the driver survives, that's all...

Back to work

2010-03-07T23:42:00.000-08:00

The weekend just seems to slip past us, in a blink of an eye.
Well, sometimes I feel it's ridiculous to compare 2 days to 5 days and then say the days pass us by so fast.
Crazy people, us.

Am I sinking into the Monday blues syndrome, I don't know, perhaps yes or no
I dread the arrival of Monday, but yet, I want to go to work
I have tons of work to complete and that's why I know I won't be sitting or wandering aimlessly for the day.

However, after enjoying a nice weekend; actually, not so nice after all with the hot and humid weather and the sun constantly shining on me, but still nicer than having to go through all those horrid moments at workplace (sometimes)

Fridayyyyy enthusiasm is over, and Monday blues are here to stay...I hope not...
Welcome back to work...and a whole new weeek of work!

All Hell Breaks Loose in Two Days?

2010-03-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

I really can't believe it, how things can just go haywire when one person goes on leave or fall sick on one day and when it's more than one day, take my case, two days, and ALL hell breaks loose.

That was what happened when I fell sick (unfortunately and unintentionally) last Monday.
I don't know what happened, I woke up, and I felt so tired and my whole body was aching. I felt like I was being weighed down on the bed and my head feels like it's spinning around.

I tried with every ounce of energy to pull myself out of bed (it was probably the first time that I woke up past seven) and I dragged my feet to the bathroom and took a quick shower.
I thought it was just the exhaustion over the weekend and that it was Monday blues and usually showers/cold baths help in getting over the feeling.

However, when I step out of the shower, I felt even worse and there was this feeling of hot and cold all over me and I just felt uncomfortable.
I felt weak and tired all over as well, and I had to sit down.
When I stood, I felt like sitting down.
When I sat down, I felt like lying down...you know, that kind of feeling?

I tried to get up and reach for my outfit to wear to the office, and that was when I felt my head spinning around.
I didn't want to admit that I was unwell because I didn't want to take sick leave, I just wanted to go to work.
It sounds crazy, I know but after a while, I really felt so unwell and weak, I could not even see myself leaving the room, let alone getting out of the house and driving to work.

I have to admit it there and then, that I am unfit to drive and go to work and I'd better lie down and get some rest.
It must have been one of those rare times where I was telling myself and feeling that I must go to the doctor!

I went to the doctor alright and I rested; I was practically asleep the whole day after the doctor put me on heavy medication; the drugs made me so drowsy and groggy that I could barely feel or hear anything and I slept through the day, that even both my phones by side which were ringing, I could not even hear.
I could barely lift my eyes open or my hand; I could say that this is the time where the saying "Dead as a log" describes me.

The funny thing is, I could even go back to sleep at night and all the way till morning. Typically when I take even the shortest nap in the afternoon, I will have trouble sleeping at night.
No exception cases; unless I am sick, like this.

The next morning, I woke up still feeling groggy and drowsy; and I decided not to take the medicine anymore.
I felt better but still slept a lot throughout the day. Needless to say, this calls for another day off from work.
I cannot help it, I need to have enforce some self-importance and priority this time.

Having fully rested for two days, I have returned to work on the Wednesday and that was when I heard that everything was in a chaos.
HQ had to handle a lot of inquiries during my absence and customers were rushing them.
Bosses had to stay back to approve the projects, etc.
I blinked, "What, so, this is my fault that I am sick?"

Everyone seems to be saying, "Oh, she's sick, so we've got to do this"
Even when I get calls, they're like, "Are you working today?" although they know fully well I have been back to work since Wednesday.

This is not the first time this has happened, and sometimes I wonder, how such disorganization can happen in a multi-national organization.

I have been sick before and worse things have happened, but I think I am still sick.
Sick to be staying here, and really sick of everything!

FRIDAYYYYYY

2010-03-05T00:32:00.000-08:00

It's finally Freaky Friday....and Thank God it's Fridayyyyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!

I can't wait to leave work....it's driving me crazy...
High stress mode at the moment!

I wanna go home....weekend, here I come!!
I sound crazy but it's been a crazy week too....been sick and all and rushing my work like mad and well, it's just not that pleasant, with those bullet-like emails.

I've gotta return some torpedoes soon...but anyway, it's FRIDAYYYYYYYYY

I am lovin' it! =D

Have a smashin' weekend everyone and till my next update, TGIF folks!!~

My little cousin brother

2010-03-04T23:51:00.001-08:00

My youngest cousin brother; the latest addition to the family is also almost 1 year old now and I had the chance to see him during CNY when youngest aunt brought him back from his maternal grandmother's place where he was placed under her care.

He was pretty active during that time; despite aunt saying that he's a little agitated since it's near his nap hour.

He has learnt how to say "Ma Ma" and "Mum mum"; I guess that's pretty close =)

He doesn't know how to walk or stand on his own feet yet (metaphorically speaking)

Adorable, isn't he?
He's definitely the youngest baby in the family at the moment! =)

My CNY gathering with friends

2010-03-04T23:20:00.000-08:00

This year's CNY was made even more meaningful when I had the chance to meet up with my friends.
Ironically, we just realized that it was probably a year ago since everyone met up with each other although the last meeting (not everyone was there) was during Aaron's birthday party.
I think Mike was missing but Dane was there; and this round during the meeting, Dane was missing but Mike was there but there was an addition of Vincent.
So, guess it all made up in numbers; and hopefully there will be more addition during the next gathering.

We made plans to meet up at this famous Greenview Restaurant in PJ; SS19.

I found a lot of the food bloggers posting about this restaurant; raving about their famous specialty dishes (food photos and posts in Food Blog =)

Oh, I missed my bestie!!!

Lots of camwhoring and lots of chat boxes popping up here and there, and we were supposed to catch up on our discussion for a vacation and somehow, it didn't realize

My best girl friends since high school!!~ (Jes and Yenn =)

We had a so-called CNY feast; or a rather lavish spread of dinner while catching up with each other (or were we catching up more on the food??=P)
Lou Sang was definitely on the menu; and I think it was probably the first time we had it for ourselves (this gang I think)

Me at work; capturing the food photos, what else?

LOU AHHHHHH!!!!

Lots of good wishes and it turned out to be wishing for each other to get married soon....ishhhhh =P

Second round at Swensens' SS2; and finally a group photo!

I am missing the gang again....hope there will be a next gathering soon, or the trip? =)

CNY is over

2010-03-04T00:43:00.000-08:00

The 15 days of CNY and the festive season is all over; after months of anticipation!
It seems like it just went past us in a breeze or a wink as I barely felt that it was 15 days ago and now it's no longer CNY?

That being said, somehow I don't feel that past the 15 days is no longer considered as CNY.
After the New Year is marked by the First Day of Spring and therefore, the first month is pretty much a new step into the New Year, right?
We are pretty much still in the New Year mood and all thing's good.
If you hear your older aunts or relatives say, they always say during this month that "It's the New Year, don't do this, don't do that"
(In Cantonese, it's translated as "San Nin Lau Lau")

We are going to have to wait for another year for all those festive food, preparations and festive stuffs which makes it all so worth celebrating =)

Of course, the most that I will miss is ANG POWs....pocket money =)
That's wealth!

Now tell me, what else are you going to miss about CNY?

10 ways to chill out in a Heatwave

2010-02-24T19:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know whether it's me alone being oversensitive or not; as I kept mentioning in my earlier posts but I DO really feel that this year's CNY weather is definitely HOTTER than the previous years.
I am not kidding about it; and two days ago, my doctor confirmed it when I was there for a consultation.

I've also checked the temperature readings; and read this, the highest recorded and the average was approximately 42 degrees celsius!
Now that's the temperature of the desert! (quoted from my doctor's words)
Now you tell me that I am hallucinating about it being hotter than the previous years!

Before we get our brains sucked out due to the heat, there are a few ways to try to cool our body temperature and to avoid from getting ourselves suffering from heat strokes due to the heatwave.

1. Think COOL and COLD all the time. Think ICE, Icebergs, and SNOW
(Picture yourself in the cold places; shivering and pulling your jackets/anoraks/sweaters close around you)

(It is a little hard for this one, I know, personally as I also have a hard time believing that it is cold when I am sweating profusely and the heat just keeps getting into our head. However, this is an old mantra that our mind controls us and therefore to take control, we need to input what our minds think and manipulate it to believe that it is actually COLD)

2. Drink LOTS and LOTS of water (this is another old ode as well)

You probably heard this a lot of time, but water is the best companion in times of heat to prevent the body from over dehydrating itself. So keep feeding fluid to your body to ensure the balance in your system.

3. Throw in some ICE into your drinks to cool yourself/suit yourself!

4. Take BATH; shower yourself or dampen yourself with cool water to lower down the body temperature against the external heat

5. Go for a swim if you want; same concept with No.4 (just make sure that you are not swimming outdoors or you could end up getting heat stroke)

6. Wear loose and comfortable clothing; cotton-based are the best.
Ladies, this is the time for those favorite tank tops and shorts and guys, well, you can go with your shorts, bermudas, singlets, t-shirt.
Think comfortable!

7. Go to the movies, shopping malls or anywhere with air-conditioning and stay there!
(If you want to go easy on your own electrical bill, but it goes back to your wallet when you spend on movie tickets, and heave bags after hours of supposedly-window-shopping!)

8. Splurge on an A/C unit or fan if you don't have one (highly impossible this one; in this age but I do not want to be snob)

Otherwise, go to option no.7
Turn on the fan and fan yourself with a cardboard or paper to cool yourself down

9. This is the time for ice-blended drinks, desserts, shaved ices, etc!!
Indulge!!

10. Take plenty of fruits, vegetables to balance our daily nutritional intake and most importantly, these contains high content of fluid and also easily digestable!

One more resolution; I shall seek for divine help and pray for this season to end soon....El Nino....may the temperature cease in its increment so that we can finally relax and breathe a little!
I do know the process too; after this will be a short rainy season followed by the haze and then monsoon.....gosh, our weather's getting crazy!

New Church for the New Year

2010-02-17T22:24:00.000-08:00

Another wonderful thing which awaits me; is the place where I was baptized, attended Cathecism classes, confirmation and my Sunday masses is finally ready to welcome the roaring New Year of the Tiger (or almost ready)

This is a church which I have grown up in/with and I've watched how it was transformed from the former building to its makeoever today.
It is just so touching to see that the building is finally ready!

Technically speaking, it was not fully ready and there was CF or anything like that yet despite the physical building all set for operation.
Nevertheless that did not stop the parish community from holding the CNY mass (one and only mass before the grand opening) on the First Day of the Lunar New Year.

Somehow, the church reminded me of the contemporary concept blended with the Roman cathedral style in its interior design.
It looked festive with all the oriental designs to usher in the new Spring (Chinese -influenced)

We attended mass on the first day of the Lunar New Year here; and found that the whole place was just so new and still dusty.

That was not the major drawback; another was the A/C could not be turned on due to the lack of power supply.
Well, what can we expect right, since they have already pre-informed us that the building is not ready for occupancy and is only open for the CNY mass.

On the other hand, with more than 40 degrees Celsius out there, I honestly felt like I was melting...and passing out soon...

Boxes of mandarin oranges stacked for distribution to the parish after the mass

Opening performance by the Chinese Apostolate of Caritas (chinese-speaking parish community of the Church)

I can't wait for the whole church's GRAND and official opening...which I presume should be about Easter? ^_^

Counting the days...

2010-02-17T21:41:00.000-08:00

It's already the 5th day of CNY....it just feels like time flew past us.
It's a few months of preparation and crazy schedules; shopping and getting everything in time, and CNY just come and go in a blink of an eye.

During CNY, it is ALL about food....from the eve until this day, we are just fed to our content (or exceeding the limit too~)

I think I've had almost 4-5 Yee Sang even a week before CNY (company's Sau Kung Chow) and it continues, and tonight, I am heading for another round of Yee Sang with my close friends =)

CNY is always like this, you spend a few months rushing for practically everything and realized that by the time CNY is here, it seems like there was really nothing that you had to get sucked into those last minute shopping as the first and second day just passed before you blink your eyes.

Nevertheless, it is a tradition, a culture and most importantly, a family event where you enjoy that quality time with them (not that I don't do it all the time =)

This year is rather special for us, and we thank God for everything.

I will be posting the food and Yee Sang of my CNY extravaganzal; inclusive of my high-class Yee Sang from the company's dinner.

Only thing about this CNY; it has been incredibly HOT and dry particularly this year...or was it only me that it was PARTICULARLY HOT this year?

Thank God for the rain yesterday but it still didn't wash away the heat; and today, it's back to the sun again...aiks..

How has your CNY been so far? =D

A HOT HOT CNY!

2010-02-16T01:26:00.000-08:00

It is really HOT this year....I don't recall other CNY being this hot despite being told so by almost everyone.

I missed those cool rainy days; although it used to be so scary when I saw the floods and the turbulent storms.
I remember taking this photo from the balcony of my place...

It was raining so heavily that it was flooded everywhere...

I used to feel afraid of the storms because it was indeed very intimidating when you hear the howling wind and crushing raindrops.
However, now, these are the photos that I look at when I feel so hot these days.

I do wish for these gales, winds....but not that serious though, because I do not want any disasters on those homeless folks.
I wish for a little rain, to cool the earth..

Rain, rain, wehre are you?

CNY.....my voice!~

2010-02-11T23:13:00.000-08:00

I am finally back for CNY and never did it cross my mind that I am about to lose my voice!

My voice is fading....gosh, like 2 days before CNY?? Oh nooooooooooooo....I WANT MY VOICE back!!

I've seen the doc and I was told not to talk to let my voice recover, and I have taken my medicine, drank lots of water and even 100 Plus...and I am still not hearing my usual voice =(

BIG =((((

Any other traditional or old-folk remedies which you know that work?
As long as it's not exotic or FEAR-FACTOR like, I am game to try!!

I WANT MY VOICE BACK..... this time it's not being stolen by a sea witch (read Ursula)

One day before...

2010-01-09T06:42:00.000-08:00

It is a day before a very happy day in my life....hehehe...
I don't think I want to reveal or it sounds so self-centered but I don't think it's that hard to guess...

And no, it's not my wedding!~

Counting down silently to myself....and waiting for that magic moment...hahaha....

YEAYYYY...HAPPIEEEEEEEE....smiling to self*

Pray for justice

2010-01-07T21:43:00.000-08:00

I've just heard some wind-up of two churches being torched down yesterday or today; following the dispute/verdict over the use of the word 'Allah'

I have not gotten the full story yet, but I am praying and I ask everyone to pray along with me that there will be peace and justice.

I pray that there will be no more racial or religion issues causing rifts among people in our country...

End of the week...and all about work

2010-01-07T19:37:00.000-08:00

I've been away on a short break (counting the number of days I took leave), I don't think it has been a long time I was away from work.

This week, I am finally back to work (and blog!) and yet, it feels I was never away or was never given the chance to be away.

Usually after a short break, you are usually happy and enthusiastic about going back to work and of course, will definitely be in a chirpy mood (especially for myself =)

Well, I guess that chirpiness was short-lived as I had barely stepped into the office for more than 5 minutes when I was directed to make a phone call to a so-called colleague who was complaining all the way about the duration I was away on a break where things were halted and there is no one around to do the work.

He made it seem like I was the one to be blamed for the delays!
I was like, "Hello? Like the company is going to shut down just because I am not around???"

*If you guys are thinking that it is that particular colleague, no, apparently, this is another one who is worse than that one. Imagine what I have to go through every day with these two guys around*

Anyway, I just decided to take a deep breath and not stress about it; I really have to take care of my own mental health and really, I don't want to be complaining in my first few posts of the year in my own blog.
I love to have happy things and speak of lovely miracles around me and not just constantly be a witch who is constantly unhappy about everything.

So, brushing that aside, I am actually happy that it is finally Friday...ahhh, that favorite day of the week for me and another two days without work.

My one week had nothing significant except W-O-R-K and that is probably about it, haha, I am starting to feel that it is so sad.

No, I don't want to have work surround my mind all the time...so another new year resolution would be to prioritize health and to have a clear balance between work and my own private life!

Yeahhh.....I am still in a very happy mood, because it's January...I've always loved Christmas season, New Year and also the first week of the New Year!!~ =D

I love January for a reason...hehehe, new start, new beginning and the First month!

*Big SMILE again*

*Dreams of finishing work soon....LOL*

How has your week gone by? =D

Thank you for your prayers

2010-01-04T21:42:00.000-08:00

Just a little update; for those who knew and were praying for my poor grandma during her critical times, I would like to say a big thank you and I am truly touched by your kindness.

My grandma has been discharged from the hospital before Christmas and was quite weak then.
However, she has regained her strength and consciousness once she's back at home and in her own bed.
She still continues to say ridiculous stuffs which scares most of us silly, but she has regained her appetite and her eyesight following her operation.

Though she is not fully stable yet, but we are thankful that she is stable enough to be discharged.
She's still required to go back for follow-up check-ups and she's still weak but she definitely looks better than when she was lying in bed at the hospital.

Praise the Lord, definitely for this Christmas gift and thanks to all of you who had her in your prayers =)
I am touched by this gift from everyone =)

Thanks and may she get well soon!~

A BRAND NEW YEAR

2010-01-04T20:44:00.000-08:00

HAPPYYYYYYYYYYYYY NEW YEAR everyone!!

Angelstar is back, with a LOUD BANG and with lots of memories and challenges geared up to face 2010 with great enthusiasm!

My first post will definitely be full of great wishes for all who have been supporting all these years; bearing with my up and down times of my blogs.

I have my list of resolutions for the brand new year and also looking back at the year 2009 which is just now full of memories.
Reviewing the old year and anticipating the new is just a little tradition I have here in my blog and the other personal blog of mine; Princess's Diary will even have a collage of my good and bad looks for the past year and with a little bit more personalized bits to share =)

Now, now, now....The new year is here...I am sure everyone is looking forward to only good things (like DUH), and have you done your list of resolutions?

I am not quite done with my list; it just keeps growing...not because I have a lot of bad habits to get rid of (don't get me wrong!), but I just want to achieve so much...LOL!

What are yours?
Maybe we can compare our notes?

First resolution will definitely be to update my blogs ASAP!!!
They are covered with moulds, moss and goodness knows what else...and I just want to be back in touch with my favorite pastime and passion in my life!

Here goes, the list of my resolutions for year 2010 (trying to keep it in line with blogging and whatever that's related)
This is just the quick list; a preview...while I compile the full list:

1. UPDATE blog...UPDATE UPDATE and continuously keep it updated!!
(I will review by end of 2010 to see whether I achieved it)
Spend more time with my blogs =)

2. Start a new blog soon....(can't reveal what it is about yet;)

3. Get a grip on my career life; make a firm decision and to progress and grow! (YEAH!)
DECIDE...a major decision to make ;)

4. Spend MORE time with my family...HOME SWEET HOME! =)

5. BUDGET BUDGET....streamline my finances more (no more fantasizing about unnecessary and evil temptations at those windows...avoid window shopping!)

6. Go for a holiday(S)...TRAVEL!! I wanna go to more places!! (to update my wish list in my travel blog=)
*That's the fun of having specialized blogs =P

7. Take more photos for my blogs...and improve my photography skills! =D

8. Increase/Diversify my reading list/books - This is my FAVORITE resolution; to add more books to read... =D

9. Take good care of myself - maintain a good health (DRINK lots of water and Exercise!!)

10. To relax more when it comes to work matters and not take everything personally or to the heart. ( I must reduce the amount of stress I am causing myself!)

Now, that's the preview of the 10 resolutions I have.....
I think there's more but I am deciding whether to share it here or in my personal blog...

What are your New Year resolutions??

*BANG* Whatever it is, I am sure they are ALL GOOD and let's all have a HAPPY and GREAT 2010!!

*BIG SMILE*

Christmas is near...

2009-12-22T19:28:00.000-08:00

It is again that time of the year; my favorite time of the year which I looked forward to every single year.

Only, this year is slightly different as I get to understand and see Christmas in a different perspective.
For the first time, I did not experience the hype or excitement which was in a minor way dampened with an unforeseen/unexpected happening at home which occupied my thoughts with prayers and anxiety rather than the joyous festive mood.

My ailing grandmother is once again, put to the test as she suffered from a bad fall again; two weeks before Christmas.
Her fall had everyone in the family feeling worried, scared and anxious over what will follow next in sequence.
It is something we could not help thinking of as she had been in and out of the hospital for the whole of this year due to her ailing medical condition and this fall is definitely not reducing any of the worries we have already had for her.

It was a solemn and trying week as I was rushing in and out of the hospital until she was discharged to be sent home.
I had to juggle the busy schedule of my work as well; which was also really stressful as I had to clear most of my assignments before I go off on my Christmas break and my long-awaited break and at the same time, taking time out of my already hectic schedule to spend time with my grandmother, who was so weak and fragile that I only had fear in my heart each time I see her.

It was a very difficult time and I prayed so hard for her.
It is also during this time that I was reminded of the approaching date of Christmas; a day where we celebrate the birth of our Saviour.

Christmas is a time of hope, miracle and love and I prayed for the blessing of this season be with my grandmother.
Our Saviour is born, and I pray that the joys of salvation be upon her as well.

There is nothing I could do but to pray, and leave everything in God's hands.

Perhaps this is God's will for us to understand the true meaning of Christmas during Advent.
Christmas is not a decoration-filled nor beauty-laden occasion where we have new clothes, presents and delicious cookies/goodies to share and give away to our loved ones.
It is not the time to enjoy those evergreen Christmas carols which fills the atmostphere with the much-awaited Christmas mood in the air.

It is not about celebration alone; it is not about being extravagant about everything and having a really great time with each and everyone.

The way I see it; this is one over-commercialized festivity where every single one on the road is caught up in the festive mood and the shopping frenzy which they think is what Christmas is all about.
In fact, no offense meant; Christmas became a celebration for every Tom, Dick and Harry who probably had their calendars filled with parties and fun-filled activities and a whole long list of who to buy and wrap Christmas presents for.
Some will even be busy shopping for their outfits; be it Santa or Santarinas.

Christmas has become a trend, rather than a holy season for us sinners to reflect and to be thankful for the coming of salvation.
Christmas is preceded by Advent; a season where we should be preparing for the coming of our Saviour by reflecting on our sins and also be hopeful for a miracle of love which is about to happen.

We are not supposed to be celebrating or be jubilant before the occasion; as some of us are but rather, to take hope and share the joys of love with others who are less fortunate before we can welcome the coming of the Son of God into our lives. We should be more like Him; to make him proud of us as his children and disciples of peace.

Christmas is also a celebration of the triumph of light amidst the darkness.
The First Christmas was not a celebration filled with extravagance but rather; it was all a very sombre and quiet affair as our little Lord Jesus was born in a stable and not in any luxurious 5-star hotel.
It is when HE is born that we can see light and rays of hope in us; for he is truly a symbol of God's love for us.
God gave his only son; to save us from the sins we have committed and THAT is what we should be thankful for.

I feel grateful that God reminds me of this meaning and how HE has stood by me; comforting me and answering my prayers in a lot of little ways.
Christmas will definitely be different and very meaningful for me; for I have truly experienced the little miracles that God has for me...

May we all experience the joys of this great season by remembering those who are hopeful and less fortunate and fill our homes with prayers and memories of gratitude.

Have a merry and Happy Christmas everyone!~

All about work

2009-12-07T20:59:00.000-08:00

Work, work, work....hmmmm, I seem to have travelled back into that mystical circle of work once again and gotten myself stressful days and sleepless nights.
(now, *touches wood* on the sleepless part)

I think I am blogging about work too much sometimes....crapping away about this and that at work.
It tends to get boring, doesn't it?

Well, for a start, we need to work to get money right
We need to use that money to keep on living, right?
We need to keep on living to ensure the survival of our species, right?
So, when we say, Get a Life to people who are so engrossed in their work, we are actually telling them to work more...

Don't you agree with me?
It all goes back in a cycle and there is no escape...

So, ever wondered why I keep on working...
Well, I just need to have a life...LOL!

Just some rambles from my busy day at work...OR LIFE! =D

Traveling here and there

2009-11-30T18:24:00.000-08:00

I've been traversing north and south for every weekend; getting to all those weddings and events that I've been invited to.
Wow, I even lost track of the number of weekdays I have...

Finally, this weekend, there will be a wedding right here...and I need to go north and then, it's down south again, for my business trip!
Grrreeatt.....and I am starting to feel tired...

Now, wouldn't it be great if this travelling is actually overseas?
I won't mind....not that I mind that much now that I get a glimpse of the city one day every week =P